LeGarrette Blount received a rare contract tender that could increase his chances of returning to the New England Patriots.
Blount, who is an unrestricted free agent, received a May 9 tender from the Pats, according to Pro Football Talk.
The tender does two things.
It allows Blount to continue pursuing a deal with another team, but the Pats would receive 2018 compensation if he signs elsewhere. If Blount does not sign elsewhere prior to July 22, he can only return to the Patriots between July 22 and Week 10 of the season. The offer is for 110 percent of Blount’s 2016 pay, which was $1 million.
The offer means the Patriots are still interested in having Blount back, just at the right price. This is somewhat of a surprise considering the Pats signed Rex Burkhead and Mike Gillislie this offseason.
Blount was a valuable member of the team as he scored 18 touchdowns and rushed for over 1,100 yards last season.
