The New England Patriots entered the 2025 NFL offseason with a lot of needs. They also had plenty of cap space to address those needs. The Patriots signed defensive tackle Milton Williams to a massive four year $104 million dollar deal. New England also brought in defenders Carlton Davis and Robert Spillane. Offensively, the Patriots targeted the line, signing guard Wes Schweitzer and tackle Morgan Moses. Now, the Patriots have made another splash in free agency by signing this former Minnesota Vikings center.

Patriots Sign Recently Released Offensive Lineman

The New England Patriots have signed former Minnesota Vikings center Garrett Bradbury to a two-year $12 million dollar deal. Minnesota released Bradbury after signing former Indianapolis Colts center Ryan Kelly to be their new starter. The Patriots now fill another hole on the offensive line, specifically at center.

What this move means

Garrett Bradbury landing with the Patriots is a sign that New England is all in on quarterback Drake Maye. Maye is coming off of a promising rookie season in which he threw for 15 touchdowns and 2,276 yards in just ten full starts. He is also a major threat on the ground as Maye rushed for 421 yards and two touchdowns. It was clear last season that the Patriots did not put enough help around Maye. The receivers often let him down and the Patriots offensive lineman consistently allowed pressure. With new head coach Mike Vrabel leading the charge, he wanted to bolster the offensive line to keep Maye upright in the pocket.

How much of a leap can we expect in New England?

The Patriots will almost undoubtedly be better than last year. The roster has improved on both sides of the ball and Mike Vrabel is a proven, playoff winning head coach. There is no reason not to believe Drake Maye will take a leap this year as well. Although a true number one wide receiver would be massive for this offense, adding another offensive lineman in Bradbury was a way bigger concern for the Patriots. Now that New England has done that, Drake Maye should have much more time to dissect the defense. New England should be a much improved team in the AFC East next season.