The New England Patriots have multiple key free agents with pending contracts on both sides of the ball. So before they start looking outwards, they’ll have to pull up a mirror and make decisions on players on their own roster first.
Who stays and who goes in New England?
That will be one of the biggest questions facing the team in March. One has to wonder how the new regime will impact the decision-making as well with Bill Belichick no longer serving as the de facto general manager.
The Patriots are clearly heading into a rebuilding season, and they will have to make some tough decisions to ensure their ability to address the most problematic areas on the roster.
ESPN’s Matt Bowen put together a top-50 ranking of NFL players on pending free agent contracts, and there were four Patriots players on the list.
Here’s where those players ranked:
25. Kyle Dugger, S
Kyle Dugger took over as the leader in the defensive backfield after Devin McCourty retired from football. He’s an impact playmaker on the field, even if he did get lost in coverage sometimes this season.
Dugger can thump with the best of them as a sure-handed tackler, and he’s clearly a player the Patriots would love to have back on their roster. But for what price? That’s the biggest question heading into free agency.
Dugger will likely be looking to cash in on a massive contract—and rightfully so. But the Patriots have significant depth at the safety position, and they could look elsewhere if the price tag gets too steep.
26. Mike Onwenu, G/OT
Mike Onwenu was one of the unsung heroes for the Patriots’ offense throughout the season.
When the unit got hit by the injury bug, they needed someone to swing over to right tackle and make the struggling offensive line work. Onwenu kicked outside, which isn’t his natural position, and put up a valiant effort as a right tackle for New England.
However, that season-long venture might have made some forget he’s one of the best guards in the league. So his services in 2024 and beyond won’t come cheap. Considering the poor state of the Patriots’ offensive line in 2023, it would behoove them to bring Onwenu back on a new deal.
41. Trent Brown, OT
Trent Brown’s run with the Patriots has been turbulent. His effort has been questioned on the field at times, and he hasn’t shied away from publicly criticizing the previous coaching staff.
With that said, Brown was one of the best tackles in the NFL early this season, before injuries took a toll on his body. He’s a massive human enforcer that would make any team better. Perhaps the coaching staff change could help mend bridges and make him and the Patriots more open towards a reunion in 2024.
47. Josh Uche, EDGE
Josh Uche fell off a cliff for the Patriots in 2023 after posting 11.5 sacks last season. He only had three sacks this season, and his playing time diminished, even with Matthew Judon out for most of the season with a biceps injury.
It never came together for Uche in the Patriots’ defense, and it’s hard to see that changing next season with coach Jerod Mayo and defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington in higher positions. Both men have their fingerprints all over the Patriots defense, which means Uche might be better off seeking a fresh start elsewhere.
He could shine as a pure pass-rusher on the right team.
