The Patriots have added 26-year-old wide receiver Lavelle Hawkins to their litter of ball catchers this off-season. Hawkins - 2008 4th round pick by the Titans - has played his entire 5 year career in Tennessee. His best season came in 2011 where he accumulated 47 catches for 470 yards (10.0 avg.) and 1 TD.

New England gives Hawkins an incentive-loaded deal. If he makes the team, his 2013 cap hit will be $815,000 and $975,000 in 2014. His reception bonuses are as follows:
At least 40 catches -- $150,000
At least 50 catches -- $300,000
At least 60 catches -- $450,000
At least 70 catches -- $600,000

Currently, the Patriots have Danny Amendola, Donald Jones, Kamar Aiken, Michael Jenkins, Andre Holmes, and Julian Edelman under contract at wide receiver. Matthew Slater is marked as a WR but serves his duties on special teams. New England also had Aaron Dobson (No. 59 pick), Josh Boyce (No. 102 pick), T.J. Moe, and Kenbrell Thompkins at rookie mini-camp last week. The Patriots crew of receivers is crowded and there will definitely be competition throughout camp. The Boston Herald has reported that Dobson & Amendola are the only locks to make the team.

It's worth noting that if the Patriots do decide to cut Hawkins this year, they will face a $150,000 cap penalty. Receivers Jones, Aiken, Jenkins, Holmes, and Edelman will not leave any dead cap space if released.

@NFLMind