According to multiple internet/Twitter reports, the Patriots have re-signed veteran tight end Michael Hoomanawanui.
Hoomanawanui was set to become an unrestricted free agent when the new NFL league year begins on Tuesday at 3 p.m.
Hoomanawanui is a veteran of four NFL seasons who started 10 of the 13 games he played in for New England last fall. He caught just 12 passes for 136 yards with one touchdown, but has been a versatile presence on the offense over the last two seasons as he also started six of the 14 games he played for the Patriots in 2012.
He's played in 43 games with 27 starts in his four NFL seasons, two each with the Rams and Patriots. He's had limited production in the passing game – 37 career catches for 474 yards with four touchdowns – but can do a variety of things including block, line up at fullback and split out wide as a pass catcher when needed.
Prior to Hoomanawanui's reported re-signing, the only two tight ends on the Patriots depth chart were Rob Gronkowski – who is recovering from a torn ACL – and late-season practice squad call-up D.J. Williams.
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