Roberts trade rescinded after reported failed physical with Patriots

The New England Patriots' attempt to bolster their tight end group has hit another brick wall.

After the Patriots acquired two-year pro Michael Roberts from the Detroit Lions on Thursday, the Lions announced Friday that Roberts had reverted back to their roster and was then waived.

Roberts failed his physical with the Patriots, a source informed ESPN's Adam Schefter.

Since losing All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski to retirement this offseason, the Patriots failed to land Jared Cook in free agency, signed Austin Seferian-Jenkins only to release him for personal reasons, and added Benjamin Watson, who will serve a suspension for the first four games of the 2019 season.

Behind Watson, the Patriots are currently relying on Matt LaCosse, Stephen Anderson, and Ryan Izzo at the tight end position. Neither has recorded more than 25 receptions in a season.