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2016 Free Agency: 5 Under-the-radar players Patriots should consider

By Connor Fulton

Oct 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks Ricardo Lockette (83) catches a touchdown pass over Carolina Panthers safety Kurt Coleman (20) during the second half at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks Ricardo Lockette (83) catches a touchdown pass over Carolina Panthers safety Kurt Coleman (20) during the second half at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports /
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2016 Free Agency Brandon Boykin
Jan 17, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive back Brandon Boykin (25) against the Denver Broncos during the AFC Divisional round playoff game at Sports Authority Field at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Brandon Boykin

After being jerked around in terms of playing time by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2015, Boykin may be looking to sign elsewhere in free agency. One of the better slot corners in the NFL, Boykin could be a huge boost to the Patriots’ secondary.

You see, the Pats did well in 2015 at the starting cornerback spots. Malcolm Butler earned a Pro Bowl nod as the No. 1 cornerback, and Logan Ryan was equally impressive in the No. 2 role. But the Patriots couldn’t find a suitable nickel corner to round-out the rotation; seeing as how the Patriots love the nickel, this was a problem.

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Well, Boykin would be a quick fix to that issue. Better yet, Boykin has yet to miss a single game in his four years as a pro, so he is dependable. He may be a bit undersized at 5-foot-9, 183 pounds, but Boykin is extremely nimble in coverage, especially in the slot.

Of the players listed thus far, Boykin would provide the most immediate upside for the Patriots. They should waste no time in signing him when free agency opens.

Next: 1. Ladarius Green

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