Daniel

Fells

Fells is below-average as both a blocker and receiver, but he appears to be a favorite target for Kyle Orton. Still, he won’t get enough looks in John Fox’s offense to have any fantasy value.

If true, it’s a major setback to the exciting tight end prospect. Although Thomas wasn’t going to have a major fantasy impact this season, the fourth-round rookie was pushing Daniel Fells for reps and flashing impressive raw talent. A true high ankle sprain would cost Thomas multiple weeks.

Thomas lasted just five snaps as he turned the ankle on a five-yard reception. The highly talented yet raw rookie was sharing reps with Daniel Fells at the tight end spot, but Fells ended up with just one 9-yard catch on the day.

The majority of Fells’ yardage came on a 31-yard completion with just seconds left on the clock. Fells has just 11 catches through five games as the Broncos head into their bye.

Fells is a career journeyman, signing with five different teams in each of the last seven seasons. Despite an above-average skill set, he would be no better than a third-string tight end in New England.

New England was Fells’ only known visit. A former undrafted free agent, Fells spent the first three years in St. Louis before signing with the Broncos last season. He started 15 of 16 games. Primarily a blocker, Fells has 88 catches in 58 career games. He’ll be called on to block behind Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. Aside from potentially freeing up Hernandez from some of his blocking duties, Fells won’t make a fantasy impact for the Pats.

Fells sustained his concussion in last Thursday’s win over the Jets. He has just 15 catches for 201 yards with two touchdowns in 10 games this season.

Fells was held without a catch on one target. He’ll have to pass his baseline tests to play against the Chargers in Week 12. Fells sustained the only injury of note in coach John Fox’s post-game presser.

Fells isn’t known to be hurt, so perhaps his absence was just a veteran courtesy. A blocker with decent hands, Fells’ roster spot behind Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez should be secure provided he’s healthy.

It’s doubtful either will be ready for New England’s third preseason game on Friday, but it bodes well for their Week 1 prospects. Players are not eligible for the reserve/PUP list once they’ve come off the active/PUP. Vollmer will slide back in at right tackle, while Fells will be limited to blocking duties behind Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez if he beats out Visanthe Shiancoe.