As part of a preview for New England Patriots training camp (first practice July 30) and to re-familiarize ourselves with the roster, it's time to bring back the "checking the locks" series. Today, we continue with tight ends.

Sure-fire locks: Rob Gronkowski, Scott Chandler, James Develin (FB)

On the bubble: Michael Hoomanawanui, AJ Derby

Trying to get in the door: Jake Bequette, Jimmay Mundine

Analysis: Watching the 6-foot-6, 265-pound Gronkowski and 6-7, 260-pound Chandler working with quarterback Tom Brady in red-zone drills was one of the main takeaways from spring camps. Both players have a large catch radius, which could come in handy when the space gets tight on the field. Chandler, who had been with the Bills since 2010 and signed a two-year, $5.3 million contract with the Patriots this offseason, looks like he could be a big part of the Patriots' plans. It might not be to 2011 levels when the two-TE package was used extensively, but that grouping could see an increase should Gronkowski and Chandler remain healthy throughout 2015. Hoomanawanui is a hard worker who fills his role well and will most likely land on the final roster, but the presence of Chandler bumps him down a notch in this early analysis. Derby, the late sixth-round pick out of Arkansas, could be a solid practice-squad candidate if he's healthy enough (knee) to compete in training camp. He's still new to the position after making the switch late in his college career. Meanwhile, Bequette is making a position switch from defensive end in hopes of sticking around, while Mundine is an undrafted free agent. At fullback, Develin (who often breaks down with TEs in position drills) is steady and also contributes on special teams.

Checking the locks 2015

Cornerbacks in transition

Running backs closely bunched in competition

Safeties add infusion of youth

Wide receivers don’t have much intrigue with top six returning

Defensive tackles have a different look without Vince Wilfork