Potential Offseason Targets for the New England Patriots

Now that Super Bowl LVIII has concluded, the 2024 offseason is in full swing. The New England Patriots find themselves in a spot to make vast improvements to their roster. Following a 4-13 finish, the Patriots are sitting at the third overall pick in the NFL Draft with the third most salary cap space - over $66 million - in the league. It’s no secret that New England has plenty of areas that need upgrading, but here are some players that could help them improve going into next season.

Tee Higgins - Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals wide receiver has flashed signs of being a top target for an offense. Through his first four years in Cincinnati, Higgins has produced at a high level. He has recorded 257 receptions, 3,684 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns. Although his statistics are impressive, it is easy to say Higgins has been living in the shadow of fellow Bengal Ja’marr Chase for the past three years. Due for a big contract this offseason, the Bengals may not be able to pay him amongst their other free agents. In New England, Higgins would have a great opportunity to break out and prove his true worth as a number-one receiver.

Calvin Ridley - Jacksonville Jaguars

Another WR the Patriots can target this offseason, Ridley comes at a lesser cost than Higgins. Ridley had high expectations as a first-round draft pick out of Alabama and lived up to them for the most part. He was named an all-pro in 2020 after recording 90 receptions, 1,374 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. Unfortunately, Ridley’s career hit a speed bump when he was suspended for the entirety of the 2022 season for illegal sports betting on games during the 2021 season, including games he played in. He took some scrutiny for dropping several touchdowns during his first season in Jacksonville, so a fresh start in New England may be a good idea for both parties.

Photo Credit: Bill Streicher - USA TODAY Sports

Tyron Smith - Dallas Cowboys

Tyron Smith was once considered the best offensive left tackle in the NFL, but since 2020, he has dealt with injuries that have held him to just 30 games in four seasons. This past season he was able to notch 13 games at right tackle and played well enough to make second-team all-pro, showing that he is still able to compete at a high level in the NFL. He tacked that on to his resumé which now includes five all-pro selections, eight pro-bowls and being a member of the NFL 2010’s all-decade team. The Patriots have a clear hole at both offensive tackle positions and Smith can step in and solidify either side of the line.

Jacoby Brissett - Washington Commanders

Brissett’s chase for being a starting quarterback in this league is over. However, he offers expertise at the position. Brissett can become a mentor to whichever QB the Patriots are, ultimately, going to draft in the upcoming draft. He also will not break the bank and can step in as the starter at the beginning of the season while a rookie QB develops. Brissett was drafted by the Patriots in the third round of the 2016 draft.

Photo Credit: Bryan Bennett - Getty Images

Leonard Floyd - Buffalo Bills

The Bills outside linebacker has been a respected EDGE player his whole career and has played a pivotal role in the defense’s success wherever he has played. Another player who is not going to break the bank, Floyd can be a reliable player for the Patriots. New England has a couple of edge rushers set for free agency this offseason and is most likely going to have to give Matthew Judon a restructured contract to keep in with the team. Whether Floyd is a starter or a rotational piece, he’ll be worth every penny you give him.

Patriots Free Agents

While New England has plenty of money to spend on free agents, they have several key players who now have expired contracts. These players include tight end Hunter Henry, OL Mike Onwenu, SS Kyle Dugger, OT Trent Brown, WR Kendrick Bourne, OLB Josh Uche and OLB Anfernee Jennings. Some play more important roles than others, and at the end of the day, it will not be possible to resign all players that were just listed. The Patriots will have to key in on the ones they believe will be most beneficial and let the others walk while targeting some of the aforementioned free agents from around the league.

NFL free agency begins on March 13.