Veteran tight end Ben Watson was suspended the first 4 games of the season for a failed PED test, one he relayed to a prescription he was given when he was initially retired following last season.

With a change of heart, Watson decided he wanted to play another season, signing with the New England Patriots in the offseason.

As his suspension was lifted today, the Pats had until 3:00 pm central time to activate him to the 53 man roster.

They did not, making him a free agent, according to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network.

Watson has a desire to keep playing. Could he return to New Orleans?

The Saints are set atop their tight end depth chart with Jared Cook and Josh Hill.

Watson, who had two stints with the Saints (2013-2015, 2018), would be an interesting candidate if they wanted to add a 3rd tight end to the active roster.

New Orleans removed rookie TE Alize Mack from the practice squad. Dan Arnold, a pass-catching fill in at TE last year, is currently on the practice squad, but not the active roster.

At 38, Watson is hoping for one last round of his NFL career that began in 2004.

The Saints brought in 3 tight ends for tryouts a week ago but didn't sign any of them.

Knowing the team is looking to add depth at the position, and a respected player who already knows the New Orleans playbook is on the roster, a third stint with the Saints for Watson isn't out of the question.

 

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