The Patriots seemingly need Hunter Henry.
He’s their only tight end with starting experience.
He’s an offensive captain.
And he’s coming off a career year with 60 catches for 768 yards and seven touchdowns, thanks to his individual skill and superb chemistry with Drake Maye.
And yet, Henry is entering a contract year with no guaranteed money left on his deal. The 31-year-old declined to share any thoughts on his future potentially coming to an end soon in New England and whether he wants an extension, saying only he’s focused on the upcoming season.
“This is a place that means a lot to me. But, I’m just focused on this year.”
Patriots coach Mike Vrabel similarly declined to address Henry’s status, but offered high praise for Henry’s consistency and play.
The Patriots currently rank eighth in cap space at $34.7 million, according to Over the Cap, and have recently hosted free-agent tight ends on visits. Henry’s value to the offense increased dramatically when the team lost Julian Hill to a torn ACL this spring. Hill signed a three-year deal in free agency to presumably be the Patriots’ new No. 2 tight end. The team also drafted Notre Dame’s Eli Raridon in the third round.
Extra points
Saturday’s opening training camp practice outside Gillette Stadium will start at 10:30 a.m. Gates open at 9:15 a.m. Attendance and parking are free. … The Patriots are hosting their second annual “Pawtriots” dog adoption program at Saturday’s practice. Said Vrabel: “If anyone’s looking to add to their roster at home, we would love for you to be able to adopt these dogs.” … Asked about the surging push by NFL players to play on grass fields, Vrabel said his team would play on any surface at any time. The debate over natural versus artificial surfaces was sparked by the use of all natural grass fields at NFL stadiums that recently hosted World Cup games.