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FOXBORO, Mass. (AP) – New England’s only unsigned rookie draft pick, University of Georgia tight end Benjamin Watson, has reportedly fired his agent.

The Patriots chose Watson with the 32nd overall pick in the first round of the NFL draft, but he has yet to sign a contract and has missed more than two weeks of training camp.

The MetroWest Daily News of Framingham reported Friday that Watson has parted ways with agent Tom Condon and may sign with Georgia-based agent Patrick Dye.

The NFL Players Association says Watson must wait five days before signing with a new agent.

Watson’s dispute with the Patriots has centered around the length of a proposed contract, the newspaper reported. The team wants Watson to sign for six years, but Condon had insisted that his client not sign for any more than five years.

At 6-foot-3 and 253 pounds, Watson is a strong blocker, has good hands and ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash, the fastest of any tight end in the draft, for pro scouts.

Although unsigned, Watson participated in mini-camp in June, studied the team’s offensive system and attended club meetings.

The Patriots tight end job currently is shared by Daniel Graham and Christian Fauria. Graham had 38 catches last season and Fauria added 28.

Watson is one of two remaining unsigned first-round draft picks. Quarterback Philip Rivers has yet to come to terms with the San Diego Chargers.


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