Patriots TE Lance Kendricks Suspended 1 Game for Violating NFL Substance Abuse Policy

Turns out replacing Rob Gronkowski isn't so easy, after all.

New England has brought in a multitude of tight ends this offseason in hopes of replacing Gronk's production by committee, if possible. Instead, they'll be without Ben Watson for the first four games of the season, and now have lost Lance Kendricks as well for their season-opening contest against the Pittsburgh Steelers.

#Patriots TE Lance Kendricks is suspended without pay for the first game of the 2019 regular season for violating the NFL’s policy and program on substances of abuse. In July, he received probation for a 2017 marijuana charge for which he pleaded no contest.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 24, 2019

The Patriots signed Kendricks this summer, and were likely aware of his baggage at the time of the move. The former Packers TE is being suspended due to a 2017 marijuana charge, which is sure to be met with some controversy as those around the league would prefer to see the NFL's policy on weed change with the times.

Still, Kendricks cannot plead innocence in this matter, as he was assuredly well aware of the NFL policy at the time of this probation sentence.

Lance Kendricks is on the roster bubble in New England. He has played 48 snaps in 2 preseason games, with two catches for 39 yards. He was penalized for holding in the end zone in Week 2, resulting in a safety. https://t.co/iY7nrE0bGK
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 24, 2019

Kendricks is very much on the roster bubble for the Patriots, as they wrestle with keeping him on the 53-man due to his perceived talent. But is he worth the trouble?

New England traded for Falcons TE Eric Saubert to bolster their depth at the position just a few weeks ago. Perhaps this is a sign Bill Belichick and Co. are moving on.