Looking at the Patriots' roster after minicamp, there are a few concerns that need to be addressed before the 2026 season begins. One of the weakest groups after a devastating season-ending injury that sidelined an expected starter is tight end, as Julian Hill won't suit up for his first year in New England.
The veteran was expected to play alongside Hunter Henry to provide some extra insurance and experience beyond rookie Eli Raridon, and even play a role in boosting the blocking on the offensive line. But now that Hill has to sit out for the year, the Patriots need to look for more help at the position.
Mike Vrabel made it clear that they're aware of the roster hole, and although there aren't many intriguing free agents available, a few names that stand out for various reasons. One of those players is Pharaoh Brown, who played in New England during the 2023 season and remains unsigned heading into the summer.
Because of his previous experience with the team, he was immediately considered a frontrunner to be signed. Plenty of Patriots' analysts and reporters have mentioned his name in recent days, and that caught Brown's attention to the point of responding to the idea of re-joining the team.
Fortunately for the Patriots, he is interested if they are.
Pharaoh Brown responds to the ongoing chatter about his potential return to the Patriots
With Brown's name becoming more linked to the team in recent days, it was inevitable that he would see the uptick in discussion and maybe even respond.
That's exactly what happened when he saw the guys at CLNS mentioning his fit for the current roster, and it didn't take long for Brown to respond, saying he would "prefer that signing as well."
That's quite a message to send to the team, and hopefully, they hear it and strongly consider what Brown could do for their roster. Although he didn't work with Josh McDaniels three years ago, he still proved he can be a viable option in the passing game and on the offensive line with his performance, which was the best of his career.
Given what they're inevitably looking for, Brown fits their needs. Not only is he a trusted veteran who can make plays and move the chains, but he is also a solid blocker, which was what Hill was projected to be used for this fall.
It seems like a no-brainer at this point, and the best part about it is that Brown won't be expensive to sign. That's just the cherry on top of what makes him the perfect Hill replacement, and hopefully, the Patriots see that, too.
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