FOXBOROUGH, Mass — In need of some more offensive firepower and red zone help, thethe New England Patriots claimed Martellus Bennett off waivers Thursday, bringing back the fun-loving tight end after a successful season with the Patriots in 2016.

Bennett became available after the Green Bay Packers released the veteran on Wednesday with a “failure to disclose physical condition” designation. The 30-year-old has been dealing with a shoulder injury that’s caused him to miss the last two weeks. In seven games this season, he has 24 receptions for 233 yards and no touchdowns.

Last year Bennett caught 55 passes for 701 yards and a career-high seven touchdowns in his only season in New England. That performance was big for the Patriots, since Rob Gronkowski spent most of the season on the injured reserve. Bennett was also a hit in the locker room. Although he played loud music, and sometimes strange music, his teammates seemed to enjoy the eccentric tight end from Texas.

Bennett signed a three-year, $21 million contract with the Packers this offseason. The Patriots now assume the remainder of the tight end’s contract. This season the Pats are on the hook for $423,529. Bennett is owed $13 million in 2018 and 2019 although none if it is guaranteed. If he sticks around next season, he’ll be on the books for $6.45 million and then $6.5 million in 2019.

There’s also a possibility that Bennett hangs up his cleats after this season. Last month, Bennett, on Instagram wrote, “After conversations with my family I’m pretty sure these next eight games will be the conclusion of my NFL career. To everyone who has poured themselves and time into my life and career. These next games are for you. Thank you.”

Regardless of whether he plays in 2018 or not, the Patriots have bolstered their offensive firepower around Tom Brady at a perfect time. With Julian Edelman and Malcolm Mitchell on the injured reserve, the Patriots were already hurting. Currently, Chris Hogan has his right arm in a sling and hasn’t been practicing. Danny Amendola has also been limited with a knee injury.

Bennett could also help in a couple of other areas – tight end depth and in the red zone. This season the Pats are tied for 20th in the NFL in converting their opportunities in the red zone. Also, the team’s depth behind Gronkowski has been lacking. Bennett’s replacement, Dwayne Allen, is still searching for his first catch of 2017. Rookie Jacob Hollister has just three catches for 37 yards.

This move also gives the Patriots a chance to use a more power two tight end combination. When Bennett was traded to the Patriots, in 2016, everyone seemed excited for the Gronk-Bennett combo. Due to injuries, the duo only played seven games together.

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