Here's when Patriots need to activate Benjamin Watson by

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The New England Patriots need to make a decision about tight end Benjamin Watson. 

An NFL spokesperson stated Friday that Watson needs to be activated by the Patriots by Saturday at 4 p.m. ET in order for him to play Sunday, according to Doug Kyed. But that's not all that could happen to Watson -- if his exemption is not lifted by Monday, then he would be released by New England.

Watson is coming into his second stint with the Patriots after being a first-round pick by the team in 2004. The Patriots were able to lure Watson out of retirement to provide depth at the position.

However, Watson was suspended for four games by the NFL for failing a drug test at the end of May, so he has yet to play for the squad. 

If not released, the 38-year-old would provide a stronger presence at tight end for the Patriots. Watson was with the team from 2004-09 and notched 20 touchdowns in 71 games played. In 2018, he caught 35 passes for 400 yards and two touchdowns as a member of the New Orleans Saints.

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