New Orleans Saints head coach Sean Payton noted the lack of depth at tight end on Wednesday. Several hours later, the Saints had a new tight end and one less defensive end.

According to multiple reports, the Saints have traded defensive end Akiem Hicks to the New England Patriots in exchange for tight end Michael Hoomanawanui.

Hoomanawanui was drafted by the St. Louis Rams in the 5th round out of Illinois in 2010. He has 40 career receptions and 4 touchdowns.

(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
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With solid size (6'4, 225 lbs), Hoomanawanui can catch the ball, line up at H-Back, and block on the offensive line. However, his lack of foot speed keeps him from being a number one tight end.

He joins starter Ben Watson and backup Josh Hill at the TE position for New Orleans.

Hicks showed great promise at times for the Saints, but recently was benched during a week 2 loss to the Buccaneers. Many NFL pundits feel he hasn't live up to his potential. He is in the final year of his contract.

A change of scenery for Hicks was needed for both parties.

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