New England Patriots free agency 2021: Top 5 targets
The Patriots aren’t happy about missing the playoffs last season. They’ll look to use NFL free agency as a means to rejoin the postseason in 2021.
Tom Brady’s decision to leave the Patriots allowed him to reach another Super Bowl while relegating his former franchise to miss the playoffs for the first time in years. As a result, New England fans should expect Bill Belichick to work tirelessly to rebuild the roster before the team’s 2021 campaign kicks off.
Historically, the Patriots have eschewed free agency in favor of building through the draft. That practice came back to haunt New England last season. It also means it’s time for the franchise to spend some serious money on veterans this offseason.
The biggest question the Patriots have to answer is who will take their snaps at quarterback. Cam Newton did nothing to engender any confidence from the front office during his run as the team’s starter. They might draft a developmental prospect, but it still looks as if the 2021 starter needs to come from this free agent class.
The list starts, however, with a big body who can help fortify New England’s defensive line.
5. Leonard Wiliams
Williams isn’t the flashy sack artist that some Patriots fans are clamoring for, but what he lacks in style he more than makes up for in substance. He’s just the sort of run stuffer that Belichick can get behind deploying at defensive end.
The question is whether or not the Patriots are willing to spend the kind of cash required to land Williams on the open market. Chase Winvich needs help on the edge next season. Time will tell if New England is willing to spend big to get it.