Dwayne Allen putting forth strong performance in training camp so far

Chris Humphreys | USA TODAY Sports

Newly acquired tight end Dwayne Allen has the right mindset - he knows he has to work hard; he knows he has to learn a whole new system; and he knows that with the New England Patriots, there are no days off.

That’s why he spent his “off day” Monday working on some yoga, some core and a little cardio, and of course catching up on 'Game of Thrones.'

The 27-year-old has completely turned around from his shaky start with his new team, but says he’s definitely not at the level he wants to be at yet. In spring OTAs and minicamp, he had a tough time adjusting and dropped a number of passes.

But now, with training camp well underway and padded practices taking place, he’s catching almost everything and becoming a major blocking force.

“I’ve definitely got to knock the rust off,” he said, “but it’s one of those things where I’m going to be required to be stout at the point of attack, and that’s something I’ve always taken pride in. Coach has always done a great job of putting players in the best position for each individual to succeed, and I believe that I’ll be put in those positions to be the lead point blocker this year.”

The Patriots will look for Allen to line up opposite Rob Gronkowski and provide a physical tone and strong presence in the offense. He caught 35 passes for 406 yards and six touchdowns last year with the Indianapolis Colts, and New England hopes he capitalize beyond that this season.

“I’m getting better day by day,” he said. “With an offense that’s been developing for 18-some odd years, I’d be a fool to say that I’ve mastered it or even come close to that. But I put in the work every day, and every day I come out here and get a little better.”

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