Grading every new signing Patriots made during free agency
Grading every new signing Patriots made during free agency
WR K.J. Osborn (1 year,, $4 million)
Most fans were hoping the Patriots would make a big splash in free agency by signing one of the best receivers available, or better yet, make a blockbuster trade for a guy like Tee Higgins once it was reported the Bengals were franchise-tagging him.
They attempted to bring in a clear WR1 by offering Calvin Ridley a hefty contract, but he chose to sign with the Titans instead, leaving the Patriots still scrambling to add the much-needed receiver who has evaded them over the last several years.
After Ridley was off the market, the remaining free agents weren't all that exciting. Most were not of the caliber the team needed, but that clearly isn't going to happen unless they make a trade for a big name at some point.
But when it was announced they were signing K.J. Osborn, although he wasn't the Vikings receiver fans wanted, it was a move in the right direction to bolster the offense.
The receiver had a successful career in Minnesota, even after playing behind Justin Jefferson for the last four years. His stats won't blow you away, and they won't necessarily bring significant change to the Patriots offense, but he's a reliable weapon any quarterback can utilize and a highly touted locker room addition, which is always welcomed.
Our grade: B+
S Jaylinn Hawkins (1 year)
The Patriots' secondary became a unit that needed some additions this offseason with the departures of J.C. Jackson, Jalen Mills, and Adrian Phillips. This made them thin at safety, making room to sign Jaylinn Hawkins to play alongside starters Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers.
On top of that, he brings even more value due to his special teams experience, which has also been a focus for the Patriots this offseason.
How that unit performs next season will likely be a focus of many, especially with Matthew Slater no longer steering the ship. Hopefully, adding players with a variety of skillsets like Hawkins will be a big part in how much better they will perform on game day.
He will also provide depth to the defense, and his experienced versatility of lining up all over the field will play a significant role in his usage.
Our grade: C
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