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Report: Patriots trade TE Jonnu Smith to Falcons

New York Jets v New England Patriots FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - NOVEMBER 20: Jonnu Smith #81 of the New England Patriots carries the ball against the New York Jets during the first quarter at Gillette Stadium on November 20, 2022 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Adam Glanzman/Getty Images) (Adam Glanzman/Getty Images)

FOXBORO, Mass. — The New England Patriots have reportedly traded tight end Jonnu Smith to the Atlanta Falcons in a move aimed at freeing up cap space ahead of the launch of free agency this week.

“A former big-ticket free agent heads elsewhere and creates space for New England,” Ian Rapoport said in a tweet.

New England signed Smith to a four-year, $50 million deal in March 2021.

In two seasons with the Patriots, Smith racked up 55 catches for 539 yards and just a single touchdown.

The official start time for the new league year is set for 4 p.m. Wednesday. Once that time hits, teams are free to talk with and sign free agents.

Atlanta is sending New England a seventh-round draft pick in exchange for Smith.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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