In terms of contractual issues, the players the Pats need to look at:
Jerod Mayo, $11.4mm
Nate Solder, $10.3mm
Danny Amendola, $7.3mm
Marcus Cannon, $4.8mm
Brandon LaFell, $3.7mm
Scott Chandler, $3.0mm
As many have noted, the Patriots save over $7mm by not purchasing the Mayo option.
Solder's absence may have proved his value more than his presence, but $10mm is too much. Of course, they don't have ready options available, as the second half of the season proved. Extending Solder could save a lot of money.
Amendola needs to restructure.
The Patriots seemed to love Cannon a lot more than the fans the past couple years. Not sure they still do - this offseason will demonstrate where they are.
No downside to losing LaFell and Chandler, and significant savings.
The Patriots could quickly open up over $15mm in cap space with some actions in this group.