What It Means:

Smith did not participate in the Pats' offseason program leading up to his first season with the team due to the birth of his daughter and the league's tighter COVID-19 protocols, but plans to attend this year's program ahead of the 2022 NFL season. The athletic tight end didn't quite live up to the expectations set for him when the team signed him to a market-topping deal, at times appearing out of sync with his teammates on offense. Another year in the system could hopefully lead to a true second year breakout in New England.

Smith was overshadowed by fellow free agent signing Hunter Henry in their first year with the team, but it was clear that the team had high hopes for Smith's dynamic skill set; Smith notched a career-high 9 carries in 2021, taking them for 40 yards. Unfortunately, he fell short as a pass-catcher, catching 28 of 45 targets for 294 yards and 1 touchdown. He'll look to build on that in the 2022 season.