In case you missed it, the NFL's finest blocking tight end is looking for work.
Ben Hartsock is team-less: Scattered to the wind after the New England Patriots released him on Thursday, just days after signing the 10-year veteran.
Pro Football Focus ranked Hartsock as last year's No. 1 overall tight end, based almost exclusively off his ability to chip block defenders and blast holes for skill position types. We questioned that ranking during a vibrant podcast chat with PFF's Pete Damilatis, but Hartsock still has a shot to prove his doubters wrong.
After crafting trackers for Tim Tebow, Chris Johnson, DeSean Jackson and Andre Johnson -- now it's Hartsock's turn:
Who will snatch up the nasty behemoth?
1. Oakland Raiders
The Raiders are hurting for bodies after second-year tight end Nick Kasatore his ACL during Tuesday's practice. Hartsock didn't catch a pass last season and won't help Oakland through the air, but he'd fill the gap alongside Mychal Rivera while starter David Ausberryrecovers from a left knee scope.
2. Indianapolis Colts
The Colts have Dwayne Allen and Coby Fleener, but questions up and down Indy's O-line make Hartsock a potential target. As does the presence of former Panthers coach Rob Chudzinski, who worked closely with Hartsock in Carolina. Besides, the Colts could use another big body to create lanes for Trent Richardson.Â
3. Buffalo Bills
Buffalo needs help at the position. Outside of Scott Chandler and the injury-plagued Tony Moeaki, the Bills would benefit from Hartsock's blocking in an offense that plans to emphasize the run all autumn.
4. New York Jets
Rex Ryan is familiar with Hartsock after the tight end played in 32 straight games during Gang Green's back-to-back playoff appearances in 2009 and 2010. With rookie Jace Amaro coming along slowly, Hartsock would give New York a wily veteran to help unleash Chris Johnson and Chris Ivory.
5. New York Giants
We're sticking in Gotham: After Adrien Robinson failed to distinguish himself this summer, the Giants find themselves stuck with the likes of Kellen Davis and Larry Donnell. With Rashad Jennings and rookie Andre Williams in place to revive New York's ground attack, Hartsock is just what the doctor ordered.
*The latest "Around the League Podcast" broke down the biggest position battles and ranked the best backup QBs in the league. *
