For months (even after Hernadez left), most of us have expected 4 TE's on the roster, one being a blocking TE. We agreed that Hooman's role was primarily as an H-back and that eh was being overpaid.
So, here we are. Hooman has reduced his salary. Devlin is gone. So, we have what we expected. We have Gronkowski, Sudfeld and one of Hooman and Fells. We always need a 4th, blocking TE. If Fells had decreased his salary as Hooman did, maybe he would still be here. Ballard gave up lame. If Belichick had any faith in him at all, he would be here.
So, we STILL needed a blocking TE. The need didn't go away. The alternative is to use a lineman.
Folks are whining that Mulligan isn't much of a receiving threat. Well, I think Hooman and Fells cauaght about 7 catches between them last year. Mulligan isn't here to be a receiving threat. If he is active, and if he is called upon, he will be asked to be a blocker.
BOTTOM LINE
We needed a blocking TE. We are trying one out. Maybe he's be so bad that we sllok elsewhere next week, or even in a couple of days. I don't understand why this signing doesn't make sense.
And yes, Belichick is still looking for players at other positions.