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4 ways Patriots failed to narrow gap with Bills this offseason

By Michael DeVito

Jan 9, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wise receiver DeVante Parker (11) carries the ball against the New England Patriots during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 9, 2022; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins wise receiver DeVante Parker (11) carries the ball against the New England Patriots during the first quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Rhona Wise-USA TODAY Sports /
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Wide receiver Ty Montgomery #88 of the New Orleans Saints (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images)
Wide receiver Ty Montgomery #88 of the New Orleans Saints (Photo by Grant Halverson/Getty Images) /

2. Patriots flopped in signing free agents from other teams

In the second phase of the offseason, the Patriots were largely non-players in free agency. In 2021, they uncharacteristically opened the coffers and spent big on free agents. The results were mixed, but still good enough to log a B- or B grade. This offseason, they didn’t do much at all to even warrant a grade.

The team added Jabrill Peppers, who can be a solid addition if he can stay on the field. He only played in six games last season due to an ACL tear, which is a concern there. Other than Peppers, not much was added. Ty Montgomery was another addition and we’re just not sure how he’ll make much of am impact.

Same goes for cornerback Terrence Mitchell. Yet, bringing back Malcolm Butler in a surprise move could pay dividends if he can start on the left side and replace some of Jackson’s ability. Overall, though, in looking outside for additional help, the Patriots didn’t succeed in helping close the gap with Buffalo much, if at all.

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