New England Patriots free agency 2021: Top 5 targets

3 of 5

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 17: Hunter Henry #86 of the Los Angeles Chargers celebrates after scoring a 10 yard touchdown against the Las Vegas Raiders during the first half of the game at Allegiant Stadium on December 17, 2020 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Getty Images) /

3. Hunter Henry

The Patriots tried to fill their void at tight end on the cheap last season and it didn’t work out. The combination of Dalton Keene and Devin Asiasi failed to impress. That will force New England to acquire a new starter this offseason.

Gambling on yet another rookie would be a mistake. Instead, the Patriots need to spend significant money on a free agent who can help serve as a leader for the position group. Henry is clearly the top tight end in this free agent class.

He’s not going to make fans in New England forget about Rob Gronkowski, but he can give the Patriots’ passing game a much-needed boost. His big frame gives him a unique ability to box out defenders down the field. Throw in his above-average speed for the position and it’s easy to understand why he’s a matchup problem for opposing secondaries.

Henry’s ability to flex out into the slot can also help cover up some of the team’s depth issues at wide receiver. New England will need to outbid the competition to land Henry, but its’ an investment worth making for Belichick and his front office.

Home/New England Patriots