Hernandez says that he's a tight end that does other things.
England Patriots tight end Aaron Hernandez pulls in a pass during practice on the second day of NFL football training camp in Foxborough, Mass., Friday, July 27, 2012.FOXBOROUGH – Aaron Hernandez has finally abandoned his steadfast desire to be considered a tight end.
He now admits that he’s a tight end that does other things.
On Friday, his versatility showed up again when dropped back as the returner with the punt team. Hernandez appeared comfortable in the role and, much to his chagrin, was forced to call for a fair catch on one punt.
“I love having the ball in my hands and make plays,” Hernandez said. “That’s another opportunity. Hopefully I get another opportunity to be back there, but Julian Edelman does a great job. … I just love football and love making plays.”
It seems that the Patriots are looking to find more ways to use Hernandez’s athleticism this season, as he’s spent portions of the first two practices working with the wide receivers.
This isn’t particularly unique, as Hernandez lined up as a receiver during 71.6 percent of the snaps he played last season, according to ProFootballFocus.com, and coach Bill Belichick said he will likely do the same this year.
“Aaron is a good receiver, there’s no question about that,” Belichick said. “There are certainly some things we work with him on that are specific routes to him or his position, are the one that he would run or run more frequently that others, sure.”