Looking at that list, lets trim some of the fat...
JAGs (Just Another Guy) - Davis, Evans, Pass, Alexander
- can easily be replaced at veteran minimum by players of similar skill
Under contract control -Gay, Wright
- I believe the Pats have the first opportunity to sign these players because of their lack of tenure
- even if they are not under control they can be replaced
If Healthy - Koppen, Graham
- if they can prove they are healthy I like both these players but only for value, a 2nd TE and Center are not expensive positions
- still if the numbers work it would wise for the Pats to sign them as it is often better to go with the devil you know versus the devil you don't
Unknown - Gabriel, Bunta-Cain
- if Gabriel is on his last year and seems to click with Brady, worth approaching for an extension
- Bunta-Cain, too early to tell, at this point he looks replaceable but may sign for cheap $$ and could be worth it as he knows the system and can play special teams
Seasoned Starter - Samuels
- out of this group I would sign Samuels first, not because he is the best corner in the league but because corner is an expensive position and if he can be locked up it solidifies the position for the next couple of years
- ideally top end skill is brought in via FA (Nate Clements - Buffalo) or via the draft to push the talent level into one of the leagues best. A trio of Clements, Hobbs and Samuels would look pretty sweet
If Gabriel, Samuels, Koppen and Graham are under contract it dramatically reduces the number of holes that need filling next year. If they are not signed then we need to replace a starting corner, starting center, top WR, 2nd TE as well as find ways to improve Inside LB, Outside LB, add youth to SS and make any other upgrades.
Thinking as I type, signing Samuel, Koppen, Gabriel as a minimum would put the team in great position to develop a solid young base while adding more youth and playmakers through next years draft.