Patriots Acquire TE Smith from Bucs

The New England Patriots traded an undisclosed 2010 draft pick for 4-year veteran TE Alex Smith from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The Patriots had the 3^rd least production from the tight end position last season. Benjamin Watson was the primary target, but could split time with Alex Smith, whose build and skill set are sharply similar to that of Watson.

Smith could also be utilized in the running game and in pass protection for New England's All-Pro QB Tom Brady, who returns from knee surgery in 2009. With back-up QB Matt Cassel out of the picture, the more pieces the Patriots have to protect Tom Brady, the better off they'll be.

It will be interesting to see how Smith is utilized; his experience at fullback could prove extremely beneficial with the departure of FB Heath Evans.

Even if the Patriots gave up one of their many 2^nd-round picks for next year, it wouldn't be too detrimental, considering the multitude of these they already have. I'd be very surprised if they gave up more than that, especially for a player that doesn't fill a need (although, at this point, the Patriots don't really have a need besides linebackers).

Although Smith didn't produce as heavily for the Bucs last year as he has in the past, his value as a receiver and a blocker will prove vital in the return of Tom Brady, and will make the New England offense more explosive and threatening than it already is (if that's possible).