With upward of $130 million in salary cap space, the New England Patriots will have plenty of cash to spend this offseason. The question is: How will they spend it?
When looking at a recent analysis by ESPN’s Matt Bowen, part of the resources will go to a cornerback, defensive linebacker, and an offensive tackle — all of whom listed among the best free agents available this year.
4. D.J. Reed, CB
Best team fit: New England Patriots
Coach Mike Vrabel would be adding a veteran corner in Reed, giving the Patriots another scheme-versatile defender in the secondary opposite Christian Gonzalez. Reed is a highly competitive coverage corner with press-man traits and the transition speed to break on the throw. But he is more of a ball disruptor than playmaker, having 40 pass breakups compared with six interceptions in his career.
The Patriots need a reliable starter to team up with Christian Gonzalez, and Reed would give them just that. Adding him would allow Marcus Jones and Jonathan Jones — the latter a free agent as well — to play more natural roles inside.
8. Milton Williams, DT
Best team fit: New England Patriots
The Patriots could make another defensive upgrade with Williams, who moved up our ranks after his two sacks and a forced fumble in Super Bowl LIX. Williams had five sacks and 18 pressures during the regular season, and I see a disruptor on tape with the strength to displace blockers at the point of attack. He also has the short-area burst to slip interior offensive linemen. He could be a difference-maker with Davon Godchaux and Christian Barmore (currently out with blood clots) inside.
The Patriots have some pieces in place at defensive tackle, but questions persist. Williams, an experienced and able big-bodied defender, would help answer some of them and give New England a high-quality interior co-headlined by Christian Barmore, Davon Godchaux and Keion White.
40. Alaric Jackson, OT
Best team fit: New England Patriots
We’ve already matched a few players to New England, but the Patriots have the most cap space in the NFL and can continue to spend by adding Jackson to play left tackle. With his 6-7, 345-pound frame, Jackson has the play strength to anchor against power off the edge, and he understands how to win with positioning. His experience (35 career starts) would be great in New England as the team builds up front to protect quarterback Drake Maye.
Offensive tackle might be the biggest need on New England’s roster, and Alaric Jackson is one of the top options available in free agency. Between him and Ronnie Stanley, the Patriots wouldn’t go wrong in their hopes of upgrading the position.
