Patriots reportedly had “exploratory talks” with Odell Beckham Jr.

The New England Patriots have had a generally disappointing offseason, as their hesitancy to retain some of their best players and go after high-end replacements has led to some serious questions about the depth of this roster. Signing players like Odell Beckham Jr. seemed like an afterthought.

Beckham could, in theory, be a perfect addition for Mac Jones. As good as Kendrick Bourne and Jakobi Meyers are, neither of them has the star potential needed to make Jones a top-tier quarterback. Beckham, however, might be in that rarified air as a player.

Against all odds, it sounds like there has actually been some traction between the two parties. With the Patriots still reportedly looking to add a wide receiver, the links between Beckham, who has spoken about his desire to play for New England, and Belichick are starting to heat up.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, among others, claimed that Beckham and the Patriots have had “exploratory talks” in the early stages of free agency. If New England has no concerns about his health, they should move heaven and earth to make sure that Beckham comes to Foxborough.

Will the Patriots land Odell Beckham Jr. in free agency?

Beckham may have only recorded 27 catches and 305 yards in eight regular-season games with the Super Bowl champion Los Angeles Rams, but it’s difficult to get consistent targets on a team loaded with star players like Cooper Kupp, Beckham proved his value in the postseason thanks to a strong finish.

If Beckham didn’t mess up his ACL in the Super Bowl, he likely would’ve earned an extensive multi-year contract by now. Any team signing Beckham would need to take a risk on a player who will turn 30 and has several concerning injuries hanging off of him. The medicals are going to be important.

Let’s just say the Patriots sign Beckham and he ends up being 75% of the player he was with the Giants. That’s still great! He can still make big catches in big games thanks to his ball skills and separation ability. Both of those traits will be invaluable tools for Jones as he tries to progress.

Giving Beckham a two-year deal could give him the financial compensation he wants while also avoiding a scenario in which New England is tied to a potentially depreciating asset. This will take some bold moves from a risk-averse front office, but Beckham is worthy of such a change in philosophy.

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