One major concern for the Patriots defense this year, and really for some time now, has been their inability to cover opposing tight ends.
 While Brandon Spikes shines against the run, he struggles in defending the pass.(FILE:USPresswire |
Here is a look of how tight ends have faired when facing the Patriots this season:
@ Buffalo: Scott Chandler 4 catches, 63 yards, 2 touchdowns
@ Baltimore: Dennis Pitta 5 catches, 50 yards, 1 touchdown
vs. Arizona: Todd Heap 5 catches, 62 yards*
@ Tennessee: Jared Cook 4 catches, 64 yards*
Total: 18 catches, 239 yards, 3 touchdowns
* led team in receiving
ANALYSIS: It isn't a secret the Patriots have a hard time covering tight ends, especially over the middle of the field. A lot of this has to do with Patriots linebackers struggling in pass coverage. A perfect example is Brandon Spikes as he has been tabbed as one of the best run stopping linebackers in the league, but when it comes to depending the pass it certainly isn't his strong suit and the reason why he isn't a three-down player yet. Jerod Mayo is one of the best tacklers in the game, but is average at best in terms of defending the pass. Dont'a Hightower is very inexperienced when it comes to this and Tracy White hasn't been able to get the job done in the times he's been put in a situation to cover a tight end over the years. This could also play into why the Patriots brought back Bobby Carpenter this week. It also speaks to the safeties not getting the job done when asked to cover a tight end. Patrick Chung, who just a few years ago could cover tight ends with the best of them, has certainly seen his play fall off, while Steve Gregory hasn't showed much in his short time in New England. This situation is something to monitor as the season goes on, especially if opposing teams exploit it more than they already have.
More News Headlines:
MORSE: Patriots Position Analysis – Linebackers and Special Teams
By: Mark MorsePatriots' Linebackers and Special Teams are analyzed, detailing player performances, contract years, and improvement areas for multiple players.
MORSE: Patriots Position Analysis: Defensive Line
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing the Patriots' defensive line ahead of training camp, breaking down established veterans and promising young talent at defensive tackle and EDGE.
Patriots News 07-05, Positions That Still Need More Depth
By: Steve BalestrieriPreviewing Patriots news for July 5th, this report details critical depth needs at tight end, off-ball linebacker, and edge as training camp nears.
MORSE: Patriots Position Breakdown, QBs and Tight Ends
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing the Patriots' QB and Tight End positions, this breakdown covers Drake Maye's 2025 season, and the TE depth chart challenges.
Patriots News 06-28: Romeo Doubs The Patriots X Factor?
By: Steve BalestrieriAssessing Romeo Doubs as the Patriots' potential X-factor for the 2026 offense. This 06-28 news also includes a Steve Zabel tribute and offseason developments.