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Patriots free agency: 6 available players Patriots should consider

By Connor Fulton

Dec 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jerraud Powers (25) returns a fumble for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals won 38-8. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 27, 2015; Glendale, AZ, USA; Arizona Cardinals cornerback Jerraud Powers (25) returns a fumble for a touchdown against the Green Bay Packers during the second half at University of Phoenix Stadium. The Cardinals won 38-8. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports /
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Patriots free agency Nick Fairley
Dec 17, 2015; St. Louis, MO, USA; St. Louis Rams defensive tackle Nick Fairley (98) and outside linebacker Mark Barron (26) pressure Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Jameis Winston (3) during the first half at the Edward Jones Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

1. Nick Fairley

When it was reported that Fairley was visiting with the Patriots at the annual NFL meetings, this writer immediately lobbied for the Patriots to sign the veteran defensive tackle:

"At the very least, it would be a luxury to introduce Fairley into the rotation on the interior of the defensive line. A depth chart consisting of standout 2015 rookie Malcom Brown, rising third-year pro Dominique Easley, trusty veteran Alan Branch and Fairley would bolster the Patriots’ beef inside. Combine that star power with the pass rushing of defensive ends Jabaal Sheard, Rob Ninkovich and Chris Long and linebackers Dont’a Hightower and Jamie Collins, and the Patriots have a top-five defensive line. Speaking of Long, there must be some chemistry between the former Rams teammates that could be handy in the heat of play."

The Patriots have got to leap on Fairley before the New Orleans Saints or Los Angeles Rams give him a juicer offer.

Next: Which offseason additions will be most impactful in 2016?

Stay tuned here on Musket Fire for coverage on every twist and turn in the Patriots’ offseason.

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