Written By: @scottybrak
Once training camp rolls around, most of the focus at the TE position is expected to be on veterans like Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper. After that – we’ve got 2nd year TE Jaheim Bell as well as UDFA CJ Dippre. But, that’s not all. Don’t be surprised if Jack Westover ends up making some noise throughout training camp. If he continues to improve as a pro, he could carve out a legitimate role — and maybe even sneaks his way onto the 53-man roster.
After an impressive college career at Washington and a brief NFL stint with the Seahawks, Westover came over to the Patriots’ practice squad midseason last year in 2024. Now, heading into camp with a full offseason under his belt, he’s a sleeper to watch.
A Unique College Profile
Westover didn’t DOMINATE headlines at Washington, but he was consistently productive and versatile. Across five seasons, he totaled 87 catches for 849 yards and 6 touchdowns, often operating as a hybrid tight end/fullback in the Huskies’ high-powered offense. His blend of solid route-running, trusted hands, and positional flexibility earned him All-Pac-12 honorable mention honors in 2023.
What sets him apart isn’t just what he did with the ball in his hands — but even more so what he did without it. Westover was a reliable blocker becoming a major asset in red zone packages. While he’s not a traditional inline mauler, his ability to line up in multiple spots made him a chess piece in college — and could translate over into the NFL.
Path to New England
Westover originally signed with the Seahawks as an UDFA in 2024 but was waived following an injury settlement during the preseason. The Patriots scooped him up in October, quietly adding him to the practice squad.
He was elevated twice to the active roster, seeing game-day action in special teams roles and a handful of offensive snaps. The fact that Westover earned not one but two call ups is promising. He has some form of professional in game experience. This could really help him in year 2 – especially during training camp.
Why He’s a Sleeper Candidate
There are a few key reasons why Westover has a real chance to make noise this summer:
- System Fit: He’s the type of versatile, high-IQ player Mike Vrabel values — a move tight end with special teams chops and experience in motion-based offenses.
- Special Teams Impact: Westover already contributed on special teams last season. That’s often the fastest way for a depth tight end to stick around.
- Roster Opportunity: After Henry and Hooper, the TE depth chart is wide open. Westover will battle with names like Jaheim Bell and CJ Dippre – even Brock Lampe (FB/TE – Hybrid)
- Fun Fact: He was teammates at Washington with Ja’Lynn Polk.
What He Needs to Prove
Of course, Westover isn’t a lock – AT ALL. This article is more so an acknowledgement. He’ll need to show improvement as a blocker at the NFL level — particularly in pass pro and against edge-setting linebackers. His frame (6’3″, ~240 lbs) isn’t ideal for every-down tight end duties, so his value has to come from reliability and special teams.
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