2016 Patriots Free Agency: 5 Dream Targets

Nov 9, 2015; San Diego, CA, USA; Chicago Bears receiver Alshon Jeffery (17) is defended by San Diego Chargers cornerback Patrick Robinson (26) on a 14-yard reception in the second quarter in a NFL football game at Qualcomm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 27, 2015; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets running back Chris Ivory (33) runs with the ball during the first half of their game against the New England Patriots at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Chris Ivory

If the Patriots can’t get their mitts on Forte, then they should strongly consider plucking Ivory from their divisional rivals who may not retain Ivory, the New York Jets.

One thing about Ivory that is true: he packs a punch. He’s coming off his best season as a pro having rushed for 1,070 yards and seven touchdowns in 2015. The former New Orleans Saints running back would be the answer to the Patriots’ power back problem should LeGarrette Blount depart in free agency, as he is expected too. Ivory would be an upgrade over Blount, anyway.

The other factor at play here is the gamesmanship between AFC East rivals. The Patriots and Jets are always shuffling players, from Danny Woodhead to Stevan Ridley to Darrelle Revis. Signing Ivory from the Jets would just be the latest instance of the Patriots trying to get inside the Jets’ heads.

Next: 2. Rolando McClain

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