Leonard Hankerson, LaAdrian Waddle to Patriots: Contract Details, Reaction

The New England Patriots announced they have acquired former Atlanta Falcons receiver Leonard Hankerson and ex-Detroit Lions offensive tackle LaAdrian Waddle off waivers.

Field Yates of ESPN initially reported the news of New England bringing the two aboard.

ESPNBoston.com's Mike Reiss added the Patriots "officially placed running back LeGarrette Blount on injured reserve and waived [receiver] Damaris Johnson" to make room for the new acquisitions.

Hankerson was battling a hamstring strain before the Falcons placed him on IR in December. Atlanta waived the talented 26-year-old Tuesday, and it didn't take long for the Pats to swoop in.    

With a thin receiving corps and Hankerson's contract expiring after this season, New England was wise to at least explore bringing him in as a potential big-play spark. In addition to possessing great speed (4.43 40-yard dash), Hankerson stands at 6'2" and did have 103 yards receiving in Week 4.

As for Waddle, Patriots quarterback Tom Brady has been dealing with a patchwork offensive line all season. Any depth that can be had up front is worth some roster reshuffling because New England must protect its most important player and ensure its high-octane offense continues operating smoothly.

It remains to be seen whether Waddle will see the field for the Pats. He was starting at right tackle in Detroit before partially tearing his left ACL in December 2014. 

Waddle came back in time for eight games and six starts this season but wasn't playing well enough to stay on Detroit's 53-man roster and was waived Tuesday, per Tim Twentyman of the Lions' official website.