Report: Patriots tried to trade for OJ Howard, were turned down

The New England Patriots have struggled to get any production out of the tight end position ever since Rob Gronkowski retired, and with the NFL trade deadline looming, they appear to be hitting the phone lines.

Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated reported Monday that the Pats asked about trading for Tampa Bay Buccaneers tight end OJ Howard but were told no.

Despite their blistering 7-0 start to the season, the tight end spot has been a hot mess for New England all year. Ryan Izzo leads the brigade with six total receptions, and fellow tight end Matt LaCosse just landed on injured reserve, forcing the Patriots to bring back 38-year-old Benjamin Watson this week.

The 24-year-old Howard, meanwhile, is having a down year with 13 catches for 176 yards and no touchdowns in six games. He could use a change in scenery, as he is in a timeshare with Cameron Brate and also has Pro Bowler Mike Evans as well as breakout receiver Chris Godwin to compete for targets with. That said, at least Howard is making great catches elsewhere though.