 Patriots safety Devin McCourty could be looking to cash in when free agency begins next month. (USA TODAY Images) |
The offseason has begun. Many New Englanders and Patriots fans around the world are still on a high from their 28-24 Super Bowl victory over the Seattle Seahawks on Feb. 1. But now that we are more than a week removed, it's time to turn the page.
Here's a look at the Patriots free agents, with some thoughts on each player. --
Quick Note: Cornerback Darrelle Revis is not a free agent, but the team has a $2o million option on him for next season. If the team picks up the option, Revis will count $25 million against New England's salary cap.
Revis is a key factor this season, obviously. Ideally the Patriots and Revis agree to a new, long-term contract that not only lowers his salary cap hit for 2015, but also keeps him on the team going forward. This will be one of the biggest offseason stories over the next several weeks.
Devin McCourty: The Patriots safety, like Revis, is another huge key for New England this offseason. McCourty could be an option for the franchise tag, but that would make his salary $9.5 million next season.
Is McCourty an elite level safety? Some may put him in that level, but he's probably in the second tier from this viewpoint. The NFL has a shortage of very good safety play, however, so if he hits the open market, there's a good chance he gets paid.
Regardless, he's developed within Bill Belichick's system and has been a positive figure around the team. The Pats cannot let him walk after struggling to build their secondary for so long.
Stephen Gostkowski: The the 31-year-old is coming off a very strong season, ranking second in the NFL in field goal percentage and becoming New England's all-time scoring leader in the process.
Gostkowski was a core component of a strong special teams unit for New England and the Patriots will most likely bring him back. He could be franchise tagged, if the sides fail to agree on a new deal.
Dan Connolly: A smart, talented and versatile lineman will always have a job in the NFL. Connolly was one of the team's most consistent offensive lineman this year and has an opportunity to come back next season. With that being said, it will most likely come down to how much he's worth.
Connolly will be 33 when the 2015 season begins, so don't expect the Patriots to offer a long-term deal. If the lineman wants to return for one or two years worth a reasonable, but team-friendly salary, he'll be back. If another team offers a bigger more lucrative deal, the team will likely move on.
Shane Vereen: Coming off a solid year, Vereen could draw some interest around the league. More polished as a receiver than running back, Vereen offers an intriguing option on offense.
Free agent running backs have not been highly paid in recent years, but it will be curious to see if the Pats will match another teams bid or if they'll be content moving on to the second-year tailback, James White. While New England may want him back, there's a chance he'll get more money from another team.
Stevan Ridley: After suffering a knee injury that ended his season, Ridley is now a free agent. While durability or production aren't major concerns, his value will be low because of his medical status.
Ridley has proven he can be a NFL starting running back, but will the Patriots want him back or are they set with LeGarrette Blount and Jonas Gray? Time will tell, as the market could dictate his future.
Akeem Ayers: Acquired from the Tennessee Titans in a midseason trade, Ayers put together a solid season for the Patriots. While his playing time and production dipped towards the end of the year, he totaled four sacks in nine games.
Ayers could get some attention on the free agent market, as pass rushers are a valued commodity. How much do the Patriots value his services? That will be determined in the coming weeks. And while the team would likely welcome him back, don't expect them to break the bank to do so.
Jonathan Casillas: Another core special teams player for New England this season, acquired from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers midseason. Casillas was solid in a backup role, fitting in seamlessly in the transition. There's a good chance both sides come to an agreement for next season.
Alan Branch: After joining the team midway through the season, Branch filled his complementary role well. A big-bodied, veteran defensive lineman with toughness was exactly what Belichick envisioned when he was signed.
Don't expect a long-term deal, but a one-year deal for 2015 would be good for both sides. That is, of course, if Branch was happy with his role this season and another team doesn't hand the 30-year-old more money next month.
Chris White: Primarily a special teams player and depth linebacker, White has developed within the Patriots system. He won't command a big contract on the open market, which makes his return to New England very possible.
Danny Aiken: Despite a few shaky moments, Aiken did a solid job long snapping for the Pats last season. The question is, does the team want to upgrade or move on?
They have brought in players to challenge Aiken, such as Charley Hughlett in training camp. To Aiken's credit, he won the job. Expect the Patriots and Aiken to agree on a new deal, giving him an opportunity to fight for his job next season.
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