Moves to create millions in cap space for Patriots in 2023
The Patriots have around $35 million in cap space for the 2023 offseason, but how are some ways that they can create some more? The team does not have a ton of large contracts believe it or not. Their splurge in free agency was quite fun to witness, but they weren’t handing out market-resetting deals at all.
Right now, they have a very solid amount of cap space going into the offseason which should allow them to invest in the free agent market. They also have the space to make some significant trades in hopes of acquiring big name players.
There are a small handful of moves they could do to create even more cap space. They don’t need the space right now, but if by some chance they could use a little more wiggle room, they have some opportunity to create some.
Moves to create millions in cap space for Patriots in 2023
Cut tackle Trent Brown (Saves $8 million)
The first move the team could do is a simple release of Trent Brown, who had a down year at left tackle in 2022. My personal preference is to keep him around and to move him back to his more natural position at right tackle, but if the team wanted nearly $10 million in cap space, releasing him is the way to go.
Cut wide receiver DeVante Parker (Saves $6.2 million)
This move could most definitely happen as Parker has no more dead money left on his deal and is in the last year of his current contract. Parker was fine in 2022 but was probably not the guy the Patriots thought he’d be when they traded for him.
I think he can still be effective in the offense and is a solid veteran blanket, but his cap savings might be too hard to ignore.
Extend EDGE Matt Judon (Saves $7.8 million)
According to overthecap, a Matt Judon extension saves the team $7.8 million on their 2023 salary cap. Judon has greatly outplayed his contract with double digit sacks in each season of his career in New England. His age could be a concern, but he’s proven to be an effective pass rusher, so I’d say to not overthink this.
He’s an exceptional player and should retire as a Patriot.