New England Patriots Sign Reinstated Tight End Fred Davis
The former Washington Redskins tight end, Fred Davis, already has a new team just days after the NFL reinstated him.
According to ESPN.com's Adam Schefter, the New England Patriots have signed Davis, who became a free agent once he was reinstated. Davis signed a one-year deal and will compete for a spot on a team that has quite a large group of tight ends, led by All-Pro Rob Gronkowski.
Davis will most likely have to contend with Scott Chandler and Tim Wright to become the No. 2 pass-catcher.
Mike Chiari, featured columnist at Bleacherreport wrote, "The Patriots love to use extra tight ends, and if Davis is able to make the roster, then it may ultimately be the best possible landing spot for him. There won't be much pressure on him since Gronk will shoulder the brunt of it, and if he contributes even slightly, then the signing will likely be heralded as a success."
Davis, 29, was suspended indefinitely in February 2014 after he violated the league's substance abuse policy for the second time. According to Davis, he had taken a supplement that contained a banned substance.
The first substance-abuse violation was related to marijuana. Davis had said that his second violation was not related to marijuana at all.
Aside from his substance abuse problems, Davis had a run in with the law. He was charged with driving while intoxicated just one day after the league announced his suspension. His blood alcohol level was reportedly twice the legal limit when the arresting officer found him sleeping in his Rolls-Royce.
His case, however, was dismissed after it was determined that the arresting officer did not actually see Davis sleeping behind the wheel. Since the officer did not witness it, the officer had no probable cause to stop.
In 2011, Davis made a career-high of 59 passes for 796 yards. From 2008 through to 2013, he recorded a total of 163 receptions for 2,043 yards and 13 touchdowns. Davis's ability to perform on the field has been hindered by injuries.
