Patriots' 2024 Free Agency Thread

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

Couldn't find a good thread to put this in, so when in doubt, I figured I'd start another new one. With Miguel from PatsCap projecting our cap space to be at 69.4MM (nice), I made a chart based off of potential targets we could see. We can all agree we need help in multiple positions, and some of those include positions that aren't robust in statlines and/or considered 'skill positions', so I attempted to categorise a player's effectiveness via PFR's AV (which I know is hardly a catch-all, but just wanted to provide something quantitative). Some of these, like Josh Allen (JAX-edition) don't seem too realistic, so I'm attempting to leave those off the table. But if there is a player that fits a need, and it seems even if there is a tiny ounce of possibility, I'll try to document here.

​

Position​	Player​	Age​	2023 Team​	PFR AV​	Franchise-tag Candidate?​
QB​	Kirk Cousins​	36​	Minnesota Vikings​	7​	No​
RB​	Josh Jacobs​	26​	Las Vegas Raiders​	6​	No​
WR​	Tee Higgins​	25​	Cincinnati Bengals​	6​	Yes​
WR​	Mike Evans​	31​	Tampa Bay Buccaneers​	11​	Yes​
WR​	Michael Pittman, Jr.​	26​	Indianapolis Colts​	10​	Yes​
WR​	Calvin Ridley​	29​	Jacksonville Jaguars​	9​	No​
WR​	Gabe Davis​	25​	Buffalo Bills​	7​	No​
OT​	Tyron Smith​	33​	Dallas Cowboys​	12​	No​
OG​	Robert Hunt​	28​	Miami Dolphins​	6​	No​
OG​	Jonah Jackson​	27​	Detroit Lions​	5​	No​
C​	Andre James​	27​	Las Vegas Raiders​	6​	No​
DT​	Justin Madubuike​	26​	Baltimore Ravens​	15​	Yes​
DT​	Christian Wilkins​	28​	Miami Dolphins​	8​	Yes​
DT​	Leonard Williams​	30​	Seattle Seahawks / New York Giants​	7​	No​
DT​	DJ Reader​	30​	Cincinnati Bengals​	6​	No​
EDGE​	Brian Burns​	26​	Carolina Panthers​	8​	Yes​
EDGE​	Danielle Hunter​	29​	Minnesota Vikings​	12​	No​
EDGE​	Bryce Huff​	26​	New York Jets​	2​	No​
EDGE​	Jonathan Greenard​	27​	Houston Texans​	8​	No​
LB​	Patrick Queen​	25​	Baltimore Ravens​	15​	No​
LB​	Frankie Luvu​	27​	New York Jets​	7​	No​
LB​	Devin White​	26​	Tampa Bay Buccaneers​	6​	No​
CB​	Jaylon Johnson​	25​	Chicago Bears​	9​	Yes​
CB​	L'Jarius Sneed​	27​	Kansas City Chiefs​	6​	Yes​
CB​	Kendall Fuller​	29​	Washington Commanders​	4​	No​
CB​	Chidobe Awuzie​	29​	Cincinnati Bengals​	4​	No​
S​	Antoine Winfield Jr.​	26​	Tampa Bay Buccaneers​	14​	Yes​
S​	Xavier McKinney​	25​	New York Giants​	6​	No​
S​	Kamren Curl​	25​	Washington Commanders​	4​	No​

​

For reference, the highest AV on the Pats this year was 10, shared by Godchaux & Tavai.

Cousins is on there because for all we know, the FO will pursue a QB aggressively because they don't want to draft a QB3 at #3, & trade down, or draft another position. I don't really see a case for Pittman Jr. to be anywhere except Indy again. Tyron Smith is interesting: he probably wants a ring at this point, but if he's available for just money, I'd love to shore up 1 tackle spot & he could be a good mentor for whomever we draft. Could Strange slide to T, too? That is my rationale for including OGs in there.

Defensively, this list is much more interesting. I'd love any of those EDGEs or DTs. Paring them with a (extended, hopefully) Barmore could really solidify the D-Line even more. I'd throw a good amount of money at Patrick Queen to see if he can be had. But why Baltimore would let him go (unless he is a victim of Lamar Jackson's big payday) is another story. It seems we could go a long way toward shoring up the defence via FA, & saving our ammo for the draft class, as many here have speculated/mentioned.

Lastly, of course, this does not include our own FAs. Of those, I'm really only interested in bringing Bourne, Hunter Henry (or maybe Dalton Schultz as replacement), Dugger, Michael Onwenu, & Josh Uche, & Anfernee Jennings. Obviously, of those, Dugger would be the most expensive. I don't see any of the others going for high sums. Lastly, I'd love Onwenu back, but it seems he is keen to hit FA. Would love to hear other thoughts.

 

[RedOctober3829]

The Patriots should end up with over $80 million in cap space when it's all said and done. JC Jackson's release will open up over $14 million in additional space and if they trade Mac Jones it will take almost $5 million off the books.

 

[Cellar-Door]

The Patriots should end up with over $80 million in cap space when it's all said and done. JC Jackson's release will open up over $14 million in additional space and if they trade Mac Jones it will take almost $5 million off the books.

Mac would clear $2,785,410 if they took nobody back (probably less really since they'd fill the roster spot.

I also wonder if Miguel is including projected draft pick salaries (and the Jackson cut) in his 69M.

 

[steveluck7]

Miguel posted about it.
To get to He is including ERFA signings (his projections) as well as 2 LTBE incentives (Stevenson and Marco Wilson). This bonuses take about $5.8 million off the cap.
He does indicate that cutting JC will create $13.46 million in space for them.

he also notes that the league has not communicated the official cap # for next season yet so there could be some fluctuation. He’s going off of a $242 million cap.

 

[j-man]

u need to sign at least 2 OL and 3 wouild not hurt also a young edge rusher couild heip

 

[NextBigThing8184]

Have to think Phillips and Guy are possible cuts. Guy is totally washed and Phillips was mostly a spare part last year although with Dugger a pending FA perhaps he sticks around

 

[Hendu Candu]

Who is this Kurt Cousins?

Was also going to say there's no way they'd go for Josh Jacobs, but the way RBs are being devalued, who knows how low the bidding could get. He'd probably sit out rather than take a lowball offer though.

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

Who is this Kurt Cousins?

Was also going to say there's no way they'd go for Josh Jacobs, but the way RBs are being devalued, who knows how low the bidding could get. He'd probably sit out rather than take a lowball offer though.

Ha, edited. That's what happens when you try to make a chart whilst actually doing work for a day job.

Yeah, that's exactly why I listed Jacobs. There are other RB options out there, but because the position is so devalued, we could wind up with a decent veteran with not so much tread on the tyres for a decent amount.

 

[Eck'sSneakyCheese]

I might be in the minority but I'd take a gamble on Derrick Henry having a couple of solid years in a lesser role. I can see the Pats going back to a run heavy offense. Rham and Henry behind an improved o line with some TEs that can block? Would definitely let a rookie QB ease his way into the NFL.

 

[BigSoxFan]

I might be in the minority but I'd take a gamble on Derrick Henry having a couple of solid years in a lesser role. I can see the Pats going back to a run heavy offense. Rham and Henry behind an improved o line with some TEs that can block? Would definitely let a rookie QB ease his way into the NFL.

I doubt Henry would be interested in joining a team with poor playoff chances at the tail end of his career. But the RB market can be funny, as we saw with Zeke this year. These guys simply plummet out of the league so fast.

 

[johnmd20]

I might be in the minority but I'd take a gamble on Derrick Henry having a couple of solid years in a lesser role. I can see the Pats going back to a run heavy offense. Rham and Henry behind an improved o line with some TEs that can block? Would definitely let a rookie QB ease his way into the NFL.

This isn't happening and it wouldn't help in the least anyway.

Henry is the final piece, not the first piece. He's also getting old. And it wouldn't even be cheap.

 

[Justthetippett]

This isn't happening and it wouldn't help in the least anyway.

Henry is the final piece, not the first piece. He's also getting old. And it wouldn't even be cheap.

I bet he ends up in Dallas as the thunder to Pollard's lightning. I do think he'll come pretty cheap. Market will not be very large.

 

[johnmd20]

I bet he ends up in Dallas as the thunder to Pollard's lightning. I do think he'll come pretty cheap. Market will not be very large.

He'll cost a lot more than a RB the Pats can draft in the 6th round.

 

[Justthetippett]

He'll cost a lot more than a RB the Pats can draft in the 6th round.

Yeah I agree he makes no sense for the Pats right now. Nor would he want to come slog away behind this Oline.

 

[Eck'sSneakyCheese]

This isn't happening and it wouldn't help in the least anyway.

Henry is the final piece, not the first piece. He's also getting old. And it wouldn't even be cheap.

We don’t need a first piece. We need a piece that works. How does investing in the run not help?

 

[Rico Guapo]

We don’t need a first piece. We need a piece that works. How does investing in the run not help?

Because we already have a good back in Rhamondre, Henry is old with a ton of miles on the treads, and we desperately need help at OL.

 

[Bowser]

And we need a James White type, right? Enough with the slow, plodding skill players. We have a need ... for speed.

Looking at you, Jaylen Wright.

 

[Cellar-Door]

I think Henry is an interesting potential addition. It will piss off Rham in his contract year, but they're probably letting Rham walk anyway.
Henry is a really good RB, he looked great last year with legit the worst line in the league, he's still better than Rham, so if he was reasonably priced he'd be a nice addition to help out a young QB and likely a young line. Now I think someone is going to give him 8-10M a year which is not a reasonable amount for NE, but if he ends up in the $5M range.... I'd want him, then draft a speedy passcatching back in the 5-7th rounds. Might also make sense to trade Rham to a team in a cap crunch who is interested in a RB upgrade on the cheap.

Edit-

And we need a James White type, right? Enough with the slow, plodding skill players. We have a need ... for speed.

Looking at you, Jaylen Wright.

One of the reasons Derrick Henry has been one of the best RBs in the league for like half a decade is that he's both enormous AND one of the faster backs in the league. He's not really a plodder, he's actually an explosive back. You probably want to add a pass catching back as well obviously as he's a mediocre passcatcher.

 

[Garshaparra]

Because we already have a good back in Rhamondre, Henry is old with a ton of miles on the treads, and we desperately need help at OL.

They have enough cap space to add at least 4 high-priced FAs, and 2-3 additional serviceable players. They need to replace QB1, TE1, TE2, LT, RT and upgrade WR/Edge. With the draft, they're likely to add 2-3 starters, probably on the offensive side of the ball. I'd slot Henry into the high-price market very likely, maybe $10M average for 2-3 years, and will take less to go to a top contender. As such, I doubt he's a target or option.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

They have enough cap space to add at least 4 high-priced FAs, and 2-3 additional serviceable players. They need to replace QB1, TE1, TE2, LT, RT and upgrade WR/Edge. With the draft, they're likely to add 2-3 starters, probably on the offensive side of the ball. I'd slot Henry into the high-price market very likely, maybe $10M average for 2-3 years, and will take less to go to a top contender. As such, I doubt he's a target or option.

They’re also going to need to replace or retain Jennings, Wilson, Uche and Dugger.

That cap space is going to disappear quickly unless they’re going real cheap on depth options

 

[Justthetippett]

They’re also going to need to replace or retain Jennings, Wilson, Uche and Dugger.

That cap space is going to disappear quickly unless they’re going real cheap on depth options

Of those, I'd prioritize Jennings (who will probably come pretty cheap) and Dugger (who will not). Wilson showed some interesting pash rush potential last year, but I don't see him as a difference maker. Uche is too inconsistent to warrant an investment.

Quickly evaporating cap space is another reason to draft QB and OL. Keep Owenu and try to get creative with WR on the FA market (and mid to late rounds of the draft). If they draft Maye/Daniels and an OT in R 2 (Paul, for instance), then they on are their way but we'll see plenty of growing pains with a rookie QB and LT.

 

[BaseballJones]

Jennings won't cost much. He came on in the second half of this past season but it's not like he's any sort of pro bowl level player or anything. He's fine. I would like him back. I don't think he will be expensive. Same with Wilson. Uche may cost more and I think lots of teams would love to have Dugger, so his price isn't going to be cheap.

 

[Cellar-Door]

They’re also going to need to replace or retain Jennings, Wilson, Uche and Dugger.

That cap space is going to disappear quickly unless they’re going real cheap on depth options

I think Jennings is projected at something very low by most places, Wilson... we'll see, but not sure how pricy he'll be even after the breakout given his history and the history of LBs in his role in NE. Also, good depth there. Uche I assume they let walk, he's a low snapcount specialist I'd expect them to look elsewhere for that role, especially since I'd guess White will expand his role year 2.

Dugger is the interesting one... in decline it appears, and they hypothetically drafted his replacement last year, but if the price is right I think they retain him.

I also think it's important to remember that year 1 cap hit will be below AAV.

I think they're likely to go out try to keep at least 1 of the tackles as one big spend, maybe rework/extend some guys, then hit 1 more big FA target (Evans?, Huff?) and shop the middle/low market for the next Mack Wilson, Tavai, etc. Guys like Epenesa, Cashman, GIlman, etc.

 

[Bowser]

One of the reasons Derrick Henry has been one of the best RBs in the league for like half a decade is that he's both enormous AND one of the faster backs in the league. He's not really a plodder, he's actually an explosive back. You probably want to add a pass catching back as well obviously as he's a mediocre passcatcher.

A fair point, though Henry only managed a 4.54 and 4.52 at the combine, which is fast for his size, but not overly fast. His top end speed, however, is impressive -- he hit 21.8 mph during a 76 yard TD run in 2021. But yes, I'd like an RB who can consistently beat a LB on third down. Not sure Jaylen Wright is that guy, but he's fast.

 

[Cellar-Door]

A fair point, though Henry only managed a 4.54 and 4.52 at the combine, which is fast for his size, but not overly fast. His top end speed, however, is impressive -- he hit 21.8 mph during a 76 yard TD run in 2021. But yes, I'd like an RB who can consistently beat a LB on third down. Not sure Jaylen Wright is that guy, but he's fast.

Yeah, I think they need to draft a late round RB because they need a quick, passcatcher skillset, but I also don't think Rham is here past this year, so if you can get the right price vet to platoon for a year or two it makes some sense. The question is whether a better RB is worth $X in cap, and at the right price I think it is because you can have him for 2 years at a fixed price. Might also make some sense to explore Rham trades, he costs basically nothing, which is more valuable as a 1 year plugin to cap strapped teams than the Patriots who have $ to spend.

 

[johnmd20]

We don’t need a first piece. We need a piece that works. How does investing in the run not help?

Henry would not help the Pats in any way. They have major needs but one of those needs isn't at RB. Rham is solid, probably better than Henry at this point in their careers.

Henry won't be on the Pats in 2024. 0% chance. I don't think I would even want him.

 

[Eck'sSneakyCheese]

Henry would not help the Pats in any way. They have major needs but one of those needs isn't at RB. Rham is solid, probably better than Henry at this point in their careers.

Henry won't be on the Pats in 2024. 0% chance. I don't think I would even want him.

We need a RB to spell/compliment Rham since he showed next to nothing this year. We don’t currently have a Zeke replacement and Harris ain’t it. RB is one of the many needs they have on offense. A competent back, especially one the size of Henry would be a positive addition for any team. Saying Stevenson is probably better after last year is kind of wishcasting. Don’t get me wrong, I hope so too, but he looked mortal without a lead blocker.

You’re likely right, he won’t be here, but not wanting him seems silly.

 

[gammoseditor]

Tyron Smith, Onwenu, and Brissett are at the top of my wish list. That gives you the most flexibility in the draft. If you draft a OT Onwenu can kick inside. Brissett gives you a fallback option if you don’t draft a QB but he’s not blocking one either.

 

[johnmd20]

We need a RB to spell/compliment Rham since he showed next to nothing this year. We don’t currently have a Zeke replacement and Harris ain’t it. RB is one of the many needs they have on offense. A competent back, especially one the size of Henry would be a positive addition for any team. Saying Stevenson is probably better after last year is kind of wishcasting. Don’t get me wrong, I hope so too, but he looked mortal without a lead blocker.

You’re likely right, he won’t be here, but not wanting him seems silly.

Not wanting to waste money on an old RB isn't silly, it's astute.

 

[Cellar-Door]

Tyron Smith, Onwenu, and Brissett are at the top of my wish list. That gives you the most flexibility in the draft. If you draft a OT Onwenu can kick inside. Brissett gives you a fallback option if you don’t draft a QB but he’s not blocking one either.

I can't see any way Tyron Smith comes here. I assume he either retires or goes looking for a ring, he took a paycut last year to stay in DAL so he's clearly not looking for top $ over situation.

 

[gammoseditor]

I can't see any way Tyron Smith comes here. I assume he either retires or goes looking for a ring, he took a paycut last year to stay in DAL so he's clearly not looking for top $ over situation.

This seems to be a common theme about any top target. “Why would they come here”. We have plenty of money to spend. Smith took less money last year. The Cowboys have cap issues and many mocks have them taking a tackle. He was phenomenal last year and I don’t think he will retire over collecting $14-16 million. He absolutely would rather go Kansas City or a team like that like every free agent. If a team like that pays him we won’t get him. But they also have less cap space.

 

[Cellar-Door]

This seems to be a common theme about any top target. “Why would they come here”. We have plenty of money to spend. Smith took less money last year. The Cowboys have cap issues and many mocks have them taking a tackle. He was phenomenal last year and I don’t think he will retire over collecting $14-16 million. He absolutely would rather go Kansas City or a team like that like every free agent. If a team like that pays him we won’t get him. But they also have less cap space.

I think most players chase the money, I was pointing out that Smith is a pretty clear case of a guy who almost certainly won't. He has leaked possibly retiring, and he has shown in recent years that in his 30s he's more interested in situation than money. Taking a discount last year was unusual in that if he left he would have gotten more money elsewhere. I think he's one of a limited number of guys who don't have $ as the top thing on their list, and as such NE could offer the most and not be in the conversation, and that's less about NEP in particular than that I would guess his list is: Retire, DAL, top contenders only (KC, etc.). Conversely some guys like Evans have made it clear they want to get paid.

I think "why would they come here" is only really a concern for older players who have given indications that they want team fit over money, that's a pretty short list (might only be Smith and COusins, who as a QB is a bit unique). Like Henry... if the Patriots have the best offer (I doubt it) he'd come here, same with most of the top FAs, that's usually why guys get to FA.

 

[EL Jeffe]

I know what kind of reaction I'm going to get for this but whatever.

Sam Darnold.

Now I know when people think of Sam Darnold, they think of the "Seeing Ghosts" debacle, a complete and utter NYJ flop, and a guy Carolina traded for and who floundered there. But I don't think it's an entirely fair or true narrative. If you're willing to look beyond just going off "the vibes", hear me out.

The case for Sam Darnold:

• In 2 seasons with Carolina, they were 8-9 in games Darnold started; 4-13 in games where the other QBs started
• In 2022, he had a respectable 92.6 QB Rating. The other 2 QBs who started a meaningful amount of games for Carolina that year (Baker Mayfield & PJ Walker) had QB ratings of 74.4 & 78.0. That 92.6 rating was good for 13th best in the NFL--caveat of a 6 game sample size (He suffered a high ankle sprain late in preseason so he started off as QB3). The OL and skill position talent (outside DJ Moore) was awful. Getting 92.6 out of any QB that year was a feat.
• Ben McAdoo was his offensive coordinator in 2022, who replacined Joe Brady from 2021 (the 2021 offense was an abject disaster but Darnold at least fared better than Cam Newton...not surprising)
• Darnold is entering his age 27 season, so he's in his physical prime versus some of the other vet bridge options, like Jacoby Brissett (currently 31).
• Darnold spent last year being the Vet QB in the Room for Brock Purdy and SF; as far as I can tell, he was a good teammate and did well in the role. No reason to think he'd be bad at it in NE.
• Darnold signed a 1/$4.5m contract last offseason ($3.5m fully guaranteed). It's hard to imagine he'll have a more robust market. For comparison, Jacoby Brissett received a 1/$8m ($7.5m guaranteed) contract last offseason.

I'm not going to pretend like Darnold is The Answer in NE or he'll ever live up to his #3 overall draft status. But for a veteran bridge QB who may or may not be starting games this year, he's interesting. The fact that McAdoo got pretty good performance out of him (4-2 in his 6 starts, 92.6 QB Rating) is a good sign that he could be effective in NE's offense. As a cheap bridge guy, why not?

 

[gammoseditor]

I think most players chase the money, I was pointing out that Smith is a pretty clear case of a guy who almost certainly won't. He has leaked possibly retiring, and he has shown in recent years that in his 30s he's more interested in situation than money. Taking a discount last year was unusual in that if he left he would have gotten more money elsewhere. I think he's one of a limited number of guys who don't have $ as the top thing on their list, and as such NE could offer the most and not be in the conversation, and that's less about NEP in particular than that I would guess his list is: Retire, DAL, top contenders only (KC, etc.). Conversely some guys like Evans have made it clear they want to get paid.

I think "why would they come here" is only really a concern for older players who have given indications that they want team fit over money, that's a pretty short list (might only be Smith and COusins, who as a QB is a bit unique). Like Henry... if the Patriots have the best offer (I doubt it) he'd come here, same with most of the top FAs, that's usually why guys get to FA.

Fair points, but a quick google has a quote from his agent that he is not retiring. He may prioritize fit over money, but there’s lots of talk about the Cowboys saving money at that position next year.

"I don't know (if Smith is returning to the Cowboys) but I talked to Tyron's agent and Tyron is not retiring," Hill told 105.3 The Fan. "So he will play here or somewhere else next year."

https://atozsports.com/dallas/cowboys-receive-major-news-tyron-smith/

 

[NextBigThing8184]

We need a RB to spell/compliment Rham since he showed next to nothing this year. We don’t currently have a Zeke replacement and Harris ain’t it. RB is one of the many needs they have on offense. A competent back, especially one the size of Henry would be a positive addition for any team. Saying Stevenson is probably better after last year is kind of wishcasting. Don’t get me wrong, I hope so too, but he looked mortal without a lead blocker.

You’re likely right, he won’t be here, but not wanting him seems silly.

not wanting to spend cap space on a complementary running back seems wise unless it’s a dynamic receiving type.

Part time RB is one of the easiest jobs to fill via low end free agency or mid/late draft or even undrafted guys.

Even in the unlikely event Henry was willing to sign for cheap, accept a part time role and play for what will likely be a bad team, I don’t see how it makes sense. The Pats aren’t chasing a title next year, Stevenson is likely gone at the end of his contract. Pick up a couple of rookies and hope one can stick for 3 years.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

I know what kind of reaction I'm going to get for this but whatever.

Sam Darnold.

Now I know when people think of Sam Darnold, they think of the "Seeing Ghosts" debacle, a complete and utter NYJ flop, and a guy Carolina traded for and who floundered there. But I don't think it's an entirely fair or true narrative. If you're willing to look beyond just going off "the vibes", hear me out.

The case for Sam Darnold:

• In 2 seasons with Carolina, they were 8-9 in games Darnold started; 4-13 in games where the other QBs started
• In 2022, he had a respectable 92.6 QB Rating. The other 2 QBs who started a meaningful amount of games for Carolina that year (Baker Mayfield & PJ Walker) had QB ratings of 74.4 & 78.0. That 92.6 rating was good for 13th best in the NFL--caveat of a 6 game sample size (He suffered a high ankle sprain late in preseason so he started off as QB3). The OL and skill position talent (outside DJ Moore) was awful. Getting 92.6 out of any QB that year was a feat.
• Ben McAdoo was his offensive coordinator in 2022, who replacined Joe Brady from 2021 (the 2021 offense was an abject disaster but Darnold at least fared better than Cam Newton...not surprising)
• Darnold is entering his age 27 season, so he's in his physical prime versus some of the other vet bridge options, like Jacoby Brissett (currently 31).
• Darnold spent last year being the Vet QB in the Room for Brock Purdy and SF; as far as I can tell, he was a good teammate and did well in the role. No reason to think he'd be bad at it in NE.
• Darnold signed a 1/$4.5m contract last offseason ($3.5m fully guaranteed). It's hard to imagine he'll have a more robust market. For comparison, Jacoby Brissett received a 1/$8m ($7.5m guaranteed) contract last offseason.

I'm not going to pretend like Darnold is The Answer in NE or he'll ever live up to his #3 overall draft status. But for a veteran bridge QB who may or may not be starting games this year, he's interesting. The fact that McAdoo got pretty good performance out of him (4-2 in his 6 starts, 92.6 QB Rating) is a good sign that he could be effective in NE's offense. As a cheap bridge guy, why not?

I think the question with Darnold is whether or not he would want to go somewhere where it is almost a certainty he wouldn’t get meaningful looks as anything other than a 1 year or backup type.

with the number of bad QB’s in the league, he (and Drew Lock probably) seems like a guy who can find work somewhere where he will compete for an actual starting role and not just a “keep the seat warm for our 1st round rookie” job.

If he were interested, he’s probably close to the top of the list along with Brissett. He makes more sense than some of the other options. If I were him though I’d be looking at Seattle, Pittsburgh, Las Vegas, Minnesota (if Cousins leaves), Denver etc.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

Tyron Smith, Onwenu, and Brissett are at the top of my wish list. That gives you the most flexibility in the draft. If you draft a OT Onwenu can kick inside. Brissett gives you a fallback option if you don’t draft a QB but he’s not blocking one either.

Considering the Pats need both tackles and someone is likely going to pay Onwenu fairly high end starting tackle money (if only due to the dearth of tackles leaguewide and the lack of free agents at the position), I don’t envision a world where kicking him inside is going to make sense.

 

[Ralphwiggum]

I don't want Henry at this stage of his career either, but are we sure Rham is anything other than a JAG? I was a huge fan of his prior to last year, and I know the line sucked, but man he looked slow and unable to do much of anything after contact. I think the position needs an upgrade.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

I don't want Henry at this stage of his career either, but are we sure Rham is anything other than a JAG? I was a huge fan of his prior to last year, and I know the line sucked, but man he looked slow and unable to do much of anything after contact. I think the position needs an upgrade.

Stevenson was disappointing and probably is in his last year with the team but given the other holes on the roster I don’t know that they should specifically aim for an upgrade (decent money veteran or top 100 draft pick).

Ideally they’d use a 4th or 5th rounder on someone with upside and invest more next offseason.

Maybe a flier on a low priority younger guy like Edwards-Helaire or someone with lower mileage who might be able to plug in for a couple years as part of a rotation.

A reunion with Damien Harris might make sense too for a year or two.

 

[Cellar-Door]

I don't want Henry at this stage of his career either, but are we sure Rham is anything other than a JAG? I was a huge fan of his prior to last year, and I know the line sucked, but man he looked slow and unable to do much of anything after contact. I think the position needs an upgrade.

I think he's probably starter caliber.... but clearly not as good as Henry for example in the early down role or passblocking, and he's not a particularly dynamic passcatcher or route runner.

Now, unless the market isn't there I don't think Henry makes sense, but... I also wouldn't pay Rham his next deal either, so unless you sign someone this year you're looking to the draft or 2025 FA for your next RB.

 

[Dahabenzapple2]

PLEASE not another old running back

 

[BigSoxFan]

Rham may not even be the RB next year depending on the type of offense we want to run.

 

[Kenny F'ing Powers]

Tyron Smith, Onwenu, and Brissett are at the top of my wish list. That gives you the most flexibility in the draft. If you draft a OT Onwenu can kick inside. Brissett gives you a fallback option if you don’t draft a QB but he’s not blocking one either.

I can't see any way Tyron Smith comes here. I assume he either retires or goes looking for a ring, he took a paycut last year to stay in DAL so he's clearly not looking for top $ over situation.

First, my understanding is that Smith loves Dallas and won't want to leave. Regardless, he hasn't played a full season in a decade. In the 3 seasons prior to last year, he only played in 25% of games. He played 13 games last season, but he'll be 34 years old with a chronic neck injury. His skill level is very high and he likes Dallas, so you'll have to really overpay to bring him on board. Tying up that kind of an investment in a 34 year old with a chronic neck issue that hasn't played a full season in a decade feels like a super, super bad idea.

That said, I appreciate the few posts in here where people are looking at linemen. A lot of folks are whistling past the graveyard in regards to just how barren the market for them will be. I went over it a bit in this post, but the abridged version is that the market really fucking sucks for linemen this year.

Removing Smith, theres nobody on this list - that wasn't on the Patriots roster last season - that are even average tackles in this league. I suppose Donovan Smith would qualify as average, but he's largely been a disappointment since coming to Kansas City two years ago. He's certainly not a better tackle over the course of his career than Brown, and its probably worth noting that his two best seasons as a lineman also align with some guy named Tom Brady coming to Tampa.

My point is that there will most likely be no improvement on the offensive line next season via free agency and if we let either Brown or Onwenu go (or both), the line very likely will be worse. It's why, after they draft a QB with the 3rd pick - and they fucking better - the very next pick should be the best tackle available. I know the risks of drafting for need and reaching on players, but I'm not sure they have a choice if they dont want their rookie QB getting fucking killed. All signs point to Brown leaving in free agency. Drafting a tackle with a top 35 pick and having Onwenu on the other side of the line at least gives them a shot at being a productive unit.

If I had my druthers, I'd say:

• Let Brown walk
• Re-sign Onwenu, probably slightly overpay ($15ish M a year?)
• Pick whichever QB is left at 3.
• Figure out who you like with whatever is left amongst the Fuaga, JC Latham, Mims, Morgan, Fautanu, Guyton cluster of tackles in the draft and draft him. Rookie offensive linemen can be plug and play day one, and the Patriots will need one.
• Trade up into the mid second round to get who you like/who is available out of the "Not Harrison/Nabers/Odunze" bracket.

That, at least on paper, solidifies their offensive line, gets them a top tier rookie QB, and gives him someone to throw the ball to.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

First, my understanding is that Smith loves Dallas and won't want to leave. Regardless, he hasn't played a full season in a decade. In the 3 seasons prior to last year, he only played in 25% of games. He played 13 games last season, but he'll be 34 years old with a chronic neck injury. His skill level is very high and he likes Dallas, so you'll have to really overpay to bring him on board. Tying up that kind of an investment in a 34 year old with a chronic neck issue that hasn't played a full season in a decade feels like a super, super bad idea.

That said, I appreciate the few posts in here where people are looking at linemen. A lot of folks are whistling past the graveyard in regards to just how barren the market for them will be. I went over it a bit in this post, but the abridged version is that the market really fucking sucks for linemen this year.

Removing Smith, theres nobody on this list - that wasn't on the Patriots roster last season - that are even average tackles in this league. I suppose Donovan Smith would qualify as average, but he's largely been a disappointment since coming to Kansas City two years ago. He's certainly not a better tackle over the course of his career than Brown, and its probably worth noting that his two best seasons as a lineman also align with some guy named Tom Brady coming to Tampa.

My point is that there will most likely be no improvement on the offensive line next season via free agency and if we let either Brown or Onwenu go (or both), the line very likely will be worse. It's why, after they draft a QB with the 3rd pick - and they fucking better - the very next pick should be the best tackle available. I know the risks of drafting for need and reaching on players, but I'm not sure they have a choice if they dont want their rookie QB getting fucking killed. All signs point to Brown leaving in free agency. Drafting a tackle with a top 35 pick and having Onwenu on the other side of the line at least gives them a shot at being a productive unit.

If I had my druthers, I'd say:

• Let Brown walk
• Re-sign Onwenu, probably slightly overpay ($15ish M a year?)
• Pick whichever QB is left at 3.
• Figure out who you like with whatever is left amongst the Fuaga, JC Latham, Mims, Morgan, Fautanu, Guyton cluster of tackles in the draft and draft him. Rookie offensive linemen can be plug and play day one, and the Patriots will need one.
• Trade up into the mid second round to get who you like/who is available out of the "Not Harrison/Nabers/Odunze" bracket.

That, at least on paper, solidifies their offensive line, gets them a top tier rookie QB, and gives him someone to throw the ball to.

Agreed on retaining Onwenu at all costs, they have the cap space to overpay (and given the lack of even halfway decent tackles it probably isn’t actually going to end up an overpay when viewed in hindsight)

I do question what tackles will be available at the top of round 2. Fuaga is likely going to be a top 15 pick with some “experts” talking him up as possibly being ahead of Fashanu. Latham I don’t think can play LT in the pros and I’m skeptical Onwenu can be that guy outside of stopgap purposes. Guyton, Morgan and Mims all seem to have wide ranges for where they could go.

i like the QB at 3 and move up into round 1 (to pick 27 or wherever) to grab a tackle rather than maneuvering for a WR. There’s so much depth at WR I think that you can still get a good prospect in a later round or deal with that need in free agency to the point where a rookie isn’t a “must”

Tackle free agency is just so bleak, to the point where Jonah Williams looks appealing, that your second pick almost has to be a tackle and there’s probably going to be a run on them given how many teams need them and how few veterans are available. Moving into the back of the 1st seems ideal if the cost isn’t prohibitive

 

[NortheasternPJ]

First, my understanding is that Smith loves Dallas and won't want to leave. Regardless, he hasn't played a full season in a decade. In the 3 seasons prior to last year, he only played in 25% of games. He played 13 games last season, but he'll be 34 years old with a chronic neck injury. His skill level is very high and he likes Dallas, so you'll have to really overpay to bring him on board. Tying up that kind of an investment in a 34 year old with a chronic neck issue that hasn't played a full season in a decade feels like a super, super bad idea.

That said, I appreciate the few posts in here where people are looking at linemen. A lot of folks are whistling past the graveyard in regards to just how barren the market for them will be. I went over it a bit in this post, but the abridged version is that the market really fucking sucks for linemen this year.

Removing Smith, theres nobody on this list - that wasn't on the Patriots roster last season - that are even average tackles in this league. I suppose Donovan Smith would qualify as average, but he's largely been a disappointment since coming to Kansas City two years ago. He's certainly not a better tackle over the course of his career than Brown, and its probably worth noting that his two best seasons as a lineman also align with some guy named Tom Brady coming to Tampa.

My point is that there will most likely be no improvement on the offensive line next season via free agency and if we let either Brown or Onwenu go (or both), the line very likely will be worse. It's why, after they draft a QB with the 3rd pick - and they fucking better - the very next pick should be the best tackle available. I know the risks of drafting for need and reaching on players, but I'm not sure they have a choice if they dont want their rookie QB getting fucking killed. All signs point to Brown leaving in free agency. Drafting a tackle with a top 35 pick and having Onwenu on the other side of the line at least gives them a shot at being a productive unit.

If I had my druthers, I'd say:

• Let Brown walk
• Re-sign Onwenu, probably slightly overpay ($15ish M a year?)
• Pick whichever QB is left at 3.
• Figure out who you like with whatever is left amongst the Fuaga, JC Latham, Mims, Morgan, Fautanu, Guyton cluster of tackles in the draft and draft him. Rookie offensive linemen can be plug and play day one, and the Patriots will need one.
• Trade up into the mid second round to get who you like/who is available out of the "Not Harrison/Nabers/Odunze" bracket.

That, at least on paper, solidifies their offensive line, gets them a top tier rookie QB, and gives him someone to throw the ball to.

One step I’d say the Pats have to do is Franchise Tag Onwenu if they have to. They have the cap to do it. If they need to pay him $19m for this year not to kill the QB it’s worth it. I would prefer it didn’t come to it but you can’t let him walk for nothing.

 

[Justthetippett]

First, my understanding is that Smith loves Dallas and won't want to leave. Regardless, he hasn't played a full season in a decade. In the 3 seasons prior to last year, he only played in 25% of games. He played 13 games last season, but he'll be 34 years old with a chronic neck injury. His skill level is very high and he likes Dallas, so you'll have to really overpay to bring him on board. Tying up that kind of an investment in a 34 year old with a chronic neck issue that hasn't played a full season in a decade feels like a super, super bad idea.

That said, I appreciate the few posts in here where people are looking at linemen. A lot of folks are whistling past the graveyard in regards to just how barren the market for them will be. I went over it a bit in this post, but the abridged version is that the market really fucking sucks for linemen this year.

Removing Smith, theres nobody on this list - that wasn't on the Patriots roster last season - that are even average tackles in this league. I suppose Donovan Smith would qualify as average, but he's largely been a disappointment since coming to Kansas City two years ago. He's certainly not a better tackle over the course of his career than Brown, and its probably worth noting that his two best seasons as a lineman also align with some guy named Tom Brady coming to Tampa.

My point is that there will most likely be no improvement on the offensive line next season via free agency and if we let either Brown or Onwenu go (or both), the line very likely will be worse. It's why, after they draft a QB with the 3rd pick - and they fucking better - the very next pick should be the best tackle available. I know the risks of drafting for need and reaching on players, but I'm not sure they have a choice if they dont want their rookie QB getting fucking killed. All signs point to Brown leaving in free agency. Drafting a tackle with a top 35 pick and having Onwenu on the other side of the line at least gives them a shot at being a productive unit.

If I had my druthers, I'd say:

• Let Brown walk
• Re-sign Onwenu, probably slightly overpay ($15ish M a year?)
• Pick whichever QB is left at 3.
• Figure out who you like with whatever is left amongst the Fuaga, JC Latham, Mims, Morgan, Fautanu, Guyton cluster of tackles in the draft and draft him. Rookie offensive linemen can be plug and play day one, and the Patriots will need one.
• Trade up into the mid second round to get who you like/who is available out of the "Not Harrison/Nabers/Odunze" bracket.

That, at least on paper, solidifies their offensive line, gets them a top tier rookie QB, and gives him someone to throw the ball to.

We never really got the inside story on Brown's issues, did we? He's obviously unreliable, but maybe his complaints were tied to the old staff and you can get something out of him. I wouldn't break the bank, and would rather those resources went to Owenu if it's a choice between the two. Just saying the dynamic may have shifted with BBs departure.

 

[BaseballJones]

Re-sign/franchise (preferably re-sign) Onwenu
Sign a vet backup QB (Brissett?)
Draft a QB at #3
Draft two OT and two WR

 

[Bowhemian]

We never really got the inside story on Brown's issues, did we? He's obviously unreliable, but maybe his complaints were tied to the old staff and you can get something out of him. I wouldn't break the bank, and would rather those resources went to Owenu if it's a choice between the two. Just saying the dynamic may have shifted with BBs departure.

I’d pass on Brown. Last year he just seemed like he didn’t even want to be here. To me, he looked disinterested, and appeared to take plays off, nevermind the games he missed due to injury.

 

[Eddie Jurak]

There were a lot of rumblings that Onwenu was out of here and that the Pats maybe weren't that interested in bring him back. I hope that the new offensive brass feels differently.

I think he and Sow can hold down one side of the line. Sow struggled at times but he got better as the season went on and he showed himself to be a gamer.

View: https://twitter.com/tkyles39/status/1716624239761948957?s=20


Seems like we can do better with filling out the OL via draft or FA if we start with RT already set.

 

[gammoseditor]

He’s won’t be anyone’s first choice, but I wouldn’t rule out Sow as the starting RT next year. It’s going to be really hard adding two starting quality OT’s this offseason.