Patriots: Latest free agency buzz is good news for the offense
By Mike Luciano
While losing players due to COVID-19 opt-outs was certainly a major factor in their regression this season, the New England Patriots failed to hit .500 because of the lack of perimeter talent that was surrounding Cam Newton and the offense.
With the need for some better pass catchers carved onto the front page of New England’s plan for the offseason, former Detroit Lions wide receiver Marvin Jones could easily end up in Foxborough.
Doug Kyed of NESN is reporting that the Patriots have been inquiring about adding Jones “for a while,” and their cap space available in 2021 could help them go after him now that he is a free agent. Jones’ ability to haul in contested catches and make himself known as a vertical threat down the field could help Bill Belichick and Josh McDaniels turn the Patriots’ offense around in just one offseason.
The Patriots have liked Marvin Jones for a while, and they have a crap load of cap space. https://t.co/QPpidGnzVi
— Doug Kyed (@DougKyed) January 31, 2021
Marvin Jones could be a new No. 1 receiver in the New England Patriots’ offense
Jones, who started off his career as a complementary receiver on some good Cincinnati Bengals teams, took a risk by heading to the Lions, as he would likely see his importance within the offense increase, all the while trying to come back from a major knee injury. During his five years as a Lion, Jones averaged 62.3 yards per game and caught 36 touchdowns.
The Patriots’ lack of talent at wide receiver has been well documented. A lethal combination of failing to be aggressive on the open market and being unable to select quality starters in the draft has left the cupboard bare. If Belichick is serious about being aggressive this offseason given the need to add some playmakers on offense, Jones represents someone that can come right in and produce without eating away too much of that space.
The Lions offense is going to look much, much different in 2021. On top of Jared Goff replacing Matthew Stafford, Anthony Lynn takes over as the coordinator and - as of now - Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones and Danny Amendola are not under contract for next season.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) January 31, 2021
While he might not be the biggest name out there, Jones has managed to produce at a high level despite not exactly being surrounded by top talent. He seems capable of carrying the load for a weak Patriots receiving corps.
No matter who ends up under center, Jones will be a reliable veteran who can be trusted to be on the receiving end of several big plays every game.
