Patriots: 3 best free agent fits still remaining for NE
By Jerry Trotta
The New England Patriots put the pedal to the metal at the start of free agency, spending an unprecedented amount of money (close to $300 million!) over the first couple of days.
That sum is the most GM Bill Belichick has committed in any offseason throughout his front office career, and it’s honestly not even close, signaling to the rest of the NFL that the Patriots will be back with a vengeance next season after finishing with their worst record in two decades.
The craziest part is that New England, even after their spending spree, still have the seventh-most cap space of any team in the league at $27.66 million, per the latest projections.
That means they have more than enough left over to make at least two or three more quality signings.
You might be thinking, “What could the Patriots possibly have left to improve after their cavalcade of moves?”
Let’s not dismiss just how egregious this roster was just a few weeks ago. There’s still plenty of room for improvement, especially at the safety position following the shocking retirement of longtime starter Patrick Chung.
With that in mind, let’s highlight the best fits for the Patriots who are still currently braving the free agent waters.
The Patriots should consider signing these three remaining free agents.
3. Justin Houston
Free agent DE Justin Houston just feels like a perfect fit for the Patriots.
Yes, the Patriots should still be in the market for an edge rusher following the blockbuster signing of Matthew Judon, and we won’t hear otherwise. After all, their pass rush was the epitome of toothless this past season and we like to think the front office has zero intention of letting that happen again.
The re-singing of Deatrich Wise ensures the Patriots will have depth up front, but, as evidenced by his 14.5 career sacks over four seasons, he’s more accustomed to (and productive) working along the interior of the defensive line compared to the exterior.
With that in mind, defensive end should still be at the top of New England’s shopping list, and veteran Justin Houston comes to mind as a potential addition. The 32-year-old star wouldn’t command anything more than a two-year deal and that fits right into the team’s wheelhouse as they gear up for another spending spree when the NFL’s new television deals come into play.
On top of that, Houston is likely champing at the bit to sign with a contender amid his pursuit of a championship, which has eluded him throughout his decorated career. Though he would likely jump at the chance to return to Indianapolis, the Colts have shown zero incentive to make any statement signings thus far, which suggests he’s negotiating with other teams.
Since joining the Colts as a free agent in 2019, Houston has registered 69 tackles, 19 sacks, 30 QB hits, 53 pressures, three forced fumbles and five fumble recoveries. Those numbers are flat-out ridiculous and prove that Houston would be the Patriots’ most cost-effective option at defensive end. . .especially since household names like Jadeveon Clowney, Ryan Kerrigan, Melvin Ingram and Carlos Dunlap are all still available.