The Patriots announced they have severed ties with TE Chris Baker, leaving the team nearly bare at the position.

Baker originally signed with the Patriots for five years before last season and was used primarily as a blocker.

Benjamin Watson is an unrestricted free agent who could sign elsewhere starting Friday morning. The only other tight ends on the roster currently are Robbie Agnone and Rob Myers.

Rumors had flown around last week that the Patriots and Bears had discussed a trade for TE Greg Olsen, but no moves at the position, other than the release of Baker, have been announced yet.

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