Former Colts Slot Receiver Anthony Gonzalez Released by Patriots
Less than three months ago the New England Patriots snatched up Anthony Gonzalez after he was allowed to enter free agency. Now he finds himself looking for a job once again.
Although it seems unlikely that the Colts would choose to re-sign Gonzalez during the summer while they're spending time getting young receivers acclimated to Bruce Arians new offensive system, making such a move could be a low risk, high reward scenario.
At no point in Gonzo's career has their been a legitimate question about his abilities as an NFL receiver. He is fast, has reliable hands, and works extremely hard during the off-season to build a rapport with his quarterback. The only question surrounding Gonzalez is whether or not his run with injuries has come to an end.
Would it be worth it to grab the veteran receiver for little more than the vet minimum and replace one of the lesser wide receiver candidates during training camp? A group of wide receivers like Wayne, Collie, Gonzalez, Hilton, and Avery sounds very solid while younger hopefuls like Jabin Sambrano, Griff Whalen, and LaVon Brazill attempt to get themselves acclimated to NFL-level competition.
The worst that could happen for Gonzalez is that he suffer another injury. If that happened very little would be lost. If he managed to stay healthy, on the other hand, he would be a starting caliber receiver for very cheap. I don't expect the Colts to make a play for Gonzo but he's certainly worth some real thought and discussion in the front office.
Interesting thought Brett. Early returns on the WR corps will dictate the answer to the question. Unless Avery absolutely stinks the Colts have three locks on the roster: Wayne, Collie and Avery. Don't know if Gonzo fits at all. Expect the Colts to carry 5 receivers.
i don't think the guy really wants to come back here. supposedly he was healthy most of last year but didn't make it onto the field even in a disastrous season...
This is just a head scratcher to me. Why would you sign Gonzo and then not even see how he looks in training camp? I mean can he not run at all anymore without hurting himself?
@DougEngland maybe he is hurt? maybe they needed to free up a roster spot and he was the lowest on the totem pole? maybe they only signed him to keep him from going wherever peyton goes?
I really hope Gonzo finds a spot somewhere and excels. If not here, I'm sure a certain QB in Denver would give him a shot.
