Multiple NFL franchises have seen major change already since the start of the new league year on Wednesday, and tight ends has been one of the many positions on the move. Multiple teams have retained their star tight ends as the Chargers retained Antonio Gates and the Indianapolis Colts re-signed Dwayne Allen.
While the Chargers were able to retain Gates, they are expected to lose tight end Ladarius Green to the Steelers, where he is reportedly expected to sign. The Chargers aren't the only team losing young talent at the tight end position though, as the Colts have lost tight end Coby Fleener to the New Orleans Saints.
The Saints announced Wednesday night that they have come to an agreement with Fleener on a five-year contract for a reported $36 million. The Saints lost veteran tight end Benjamin Watson this offseason, after he reportedly agreed to a two-year contract with the Ravens, opening an immediate hole for the Saints at tight end.
The Saints lost a huge red zone target in Watson, as the former Saints tight end recorded 74 receptions for 825 yards and scored six touchdowns last season. While New Orleans may be losing a consistent veteran, they have added a talented young tight end that likely has many productive years ahead of him.
Fleener hasn't missed a game since his rookie season and the former second round draft pick recorded 54 receptions for 491 yards with three touchdowns last year, despite multiple changes at the quarterback position in Indianapolis. It will be interesting to watch Fleener develop chemistry with Saints franchise quarterback Drew Brees, as the formers Colts tight end had been playing with quarterback Andrew Luck since the two attended Stanford.
Fleener used his Twitter account to thank the fans of Indianapolis for their support during his first four seasons in the league. He also sent a message to Saints fans about his excitement in joining New Orleans in hopes of building a championship contender. Both the Saints and Ravens arguably upgraded their tight end positions this offseason, and both Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco and Saints quarterback Drew Brees are likely looking forward to working with their new pass-catching tight ends.
