Patriots: 3 FA signings New England might already regret

1. Nelson Agholor

Did the Patriots overpay for free agent wideout Nelson Agholor?

The Patriots really had no choice but to replenish their wide receiving corps after it was easily one of the worst in the league over the last two seasons. However, it must be said that we grimaced when it was reported that they signed Nelson Agholor to a two-year deal worth $22 million.

It brings us no joy to include Agholor on this list, but giving him one of the most expensive contracts of any WR on the open market this offseason is admittedly a significant gamble from the Patriots, especially considering that he’s been inconsistent throughout his career.

For context, Agholor has produced three seasons with fewer than 40 catches and less than 400 receiving yards. He is coming off a career year with the Raiders, in which he logged 48 receptions for 896 yards (18.7 YPR) and eight touchdowns, but it’s worth pondering if the Patriots overpaid for his signature.

Will Fuller, who’s been far more productive than Agholor in his career, comes to mind as someone who got away for New England, as he inked a one-year with the division-rival Dolphins that will pay him at least $10.6 million. Perhaps the Patriots were turned off by Fuller’s extensive injury history and suspension for violating the league’s performance-enhancing drug policy last season, but that’s a topic for another day.

Believe it or not, we actually don’t hate the Agholor signing. We just can’t help but wonder if NE could’ve waited to sign him for less or spent the same amount of money on a receiver with a more proven track record. Whatever the case, let’s hope the former USC star shoves this take right in our face in due time.

Patriots should still be on the hunt for a true No. 1 wide receiver

The Patriots have had an insane free agency and added several pass catching options, but Bill Belichick has yet to acquire that number 1 option at WR.