Izzo is expected to start at tight end in the Patriots' season opener Sunday against the Steelers, Zack Cox of NESN.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

With Lance Kendricks and Benjamin Watson both suspended for the contest and Matt LaCosse (ankle) trending toward an inactive status, Izzo is the lone healthy and available tight end on the 53-man roster. The 2018 seventh-round pick has yet to make his NFL debut after spending his rookie campaign on injured reserve and profiles as a blocking specialist, so don't expect him to see much involvement in the passing game even if he logs a heavy snap count.

Izzo logged 38 snaps in Thursday's 10-3 preseason win over the Panthers, en route to catching one of his two targets for 18 yards.

EDGE Analysis

With Ben Watson suspended for the first four games of the regular season, Izzo -- who spent last season on IR -- is making a case to stick on the Patriots' 53-man roster in advance of Week 1. With that in mind, his single catch Thursday night was nice enough to support his case. Matt LaCosse and Lance Kendricks are also in the team's post-Rob Gronkowski tight end mix, but depending on who makes the cut, there could be some unexpected fantasy value to be found via his replacements early on.

Izzo (undisclosed) is back to full health and was cleared to participate in offseason workouts, Doug Kyed of NESN reports.

EDGE Analysis

The 23-year-old was placed on injured reserve Sep. 2 with what was deemed a "minor" injury. Izzo didn't suit up in regular season action in 2018, but made 20 catches for 317 yards and three touchdowns during his senior season at Florida State.