NFL Rumors: New England Patriots could be waiting to sign Dustin Keller

Aug 9, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA;Miami Dolphins tight end Dustin Keller (81) catches the ball for a touchdown as Jacksonville Jaguars free safety Chris Prosinski (42) attempted to defend during the first quarter at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Aug 9, 2013; Jacksonville, FL, USA;Miami Dolphins tight end Dustin Keller (81) catches the ball for a touchdown as Jacksonville Jaguars free safety Chris Prosinski (42) attempted to defend during the first quarter at EverBank Field. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /
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Not all that long ago, free agent tight end Dustin Keller worked out for the New England Patriots but little was heard about the results.

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A few weeks later, Keller, who is coming off what many thought would be a career ending injury with the Miami Dolphins, worked out for the Patriots again though the team opted not to sign the tight end.

There could be a reason for that however, as according to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, New England could be waiting for the NFL’s compensatory issues to pass.

“The club previously hosted veterans Dustin Keller (tight end) and James Anderson (linebacker) and they could be candidates to be signed after June 1, when they wouldn’t count against the compensatory draft pick formula.”

Given the Patriots have extended two invites to Keller, it’s obvious they have interest in the longtime New York Jet though may have understandable concerns about how he returns from his 2013 injury which ended in multiple ligament tears.

The interest in Keller seemed well warranted given New England’s supposed need for a ‘move’ tight end, however on Friday it was announced the Patriots would likely run more three-wide sets this season.

Regardless, Keller still appears to be a legit target of the Patriots.