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TE David Thomas, New England Patriots

HT: 6-3, WT: 245, Born: 7-5-1983, College: Texas, Drafted: Round 3

2008 Projections

Best Case

New England utilizes multiple tight end sets and Thomas could start to see some targets coming his way if the other more proven receivers are covered. Ben Watson has not exactly been a pillar of health, so it's not a stretch to think that Thomas could see some extended playing time. The Patriots love red zone plays involving tight ends, so Thomas could see a few easy touchdowns if Watson were to go down with an injury.

Worst Case

With Thomas not one of the top options in the offense, there may not be enough production to go around and even if healthy Thomas could be an after thought in the celebrated Patriots offense. He hasn't played very much to date and was placed on injured reserve early last season with a foot injury. Thomas broke his foot twice last year, and one has to wonder if his status will be 100% all season. If Ben Watson and Marcus Pollard stay healthy, Thomas may not see the field all that much.

Outlook

If Thomas is fully healed, the Pats could opt to move Thomas around and use him as a tight end, fullback, and H-back depending on the situation. He may see the ball on occasion, especially if defenses are caught by surprise or elect to better cover the big guns on offense. Thomas most likely will be a fantasy after thought, as it's unlikely he will be targeted enough to roster let alone start in even larger fantasy leagues.

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2008 Schedule