The Patriots made the decision on Monday to part ways with Ryan Allen and move forward with rookie Jake Bailey at punter. But did they have a different plan in mind just last week?
New England reportedly tried to claim punter Johnny Townsend off waivers before the 24-year-old was awarded to the Giants, according to NJ.com. New York had a higher waiver priority due to its 2018 record (5-11) being worse than the Patriots' (11-5).
Like Bailey, Townsend is a fifth-round draft pick. The Florida product was selected by the Raiders at No. 173 overall in 2018.
Cutting Allen and failing to claim Townsend means Bailey is the go-to guy in 2019 barring any surprises. The 22-year-old has wowed throughout training camp with his huge leg and useful ability to also be used on kickoffs.
Last season with the Raiders, Townsend averaged 38.3 net yards on 70 punts. He'll compete with Riley Dixon for the Giants' punting job.
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