Quantity was not an issue for the New England Patriots in the NFL-free agency.
What about quality?
The Patriots, who recently re-signed quarterback Cam Newton, weakened on Monday, the first day of the NFL’s legal turmoil, and reportedly agreed to sign seven outside free agents: Jonnu Smith, the wide receivers Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne, edge rusher Matt Judon, defensive back Jalen Mills, defensive attacker Davon Godchaux and defensive lineman Henry Anderson.
Bill Belichick then pulled out his wallet again and allegedly agreed to a deal with Hunter Henry, one of the best players on the open market.
With rumors still circulating, the Patriots may not be finished because they want to strengthen their roster ahead of the 2021 season. ESPN NFL reporters Jeremy Fowler, Dan Graziano and Kevin Seifert review some of the league’s biggest free agent records on the fly, but taking into account contract terms, money numbers, player value and age and history.
Here’s how ESPN has rated the Patriots’ most notable offerings to date, from the highest point to the lowest:
QB Cam Newton: A
WR Nelson Agholor: B +
TE Jonnu Smith: B +
TE Hunter Henry: B
OLB Matt Judon: B
DB Jalen Mills: C +
Clearly, it’s still too early to fully assess New England’s off-season, especially with the 2021 NFL draft at hand. However, the Patriots have wasted no time in addressing their free needs via free agency, and it will be interesting to see what Belichick still has up his sleeve.
Can New England play another quarter to compete with Newton? What about a trade for a superstar playmaker, like Odell Beckham Jr.? Maybe you’re throwing a running back?
We should probably exclude nothing at this stage, based on the Patriots’ activities in recent days and the organization’s clear desire to turn things around after a disappointing 2020 season.
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