Patriots' top 5 game-changing moves during the 2024 offseason
By Matt Sidney
It seems like only yesterday that the NFL Twitter community was abuzz with excitement over the latest free-agency signings and draft picks. Names like Christian Wilkins, Derrick Henry, Saquon Barkley, and Calvin Ridley found new homes in free agency. Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels, and Drake Maye highlighted a historic draft where offensive players had a night to remember.
Those were the days.
The NFL world is now on hold for a bit, at least transactionally speaking. As the offseason winds down, a few additional moves are anticipated in the coming months. The Patriots are fresh off their first offseason without Bill Belichick calling the shots.
Jerod Mayo is now running operations on the ground while Eliot Wolf is amassing the pieces.
The offseason went well for the Patriots, as it did for every team. It's far too early to tell who the true winners and losers of free agency were, as the season will need to be played out to determine the accolades ultimately. Regardless, some moves stood out more than others in New England.
The journey back to the top will be arduous, yet the five moves outlined below illustrate how this team is actively laying the groundwork to regain its competitive edge.
Patriots' top 5 game-changing offseason moves
Cutting ties with Bill Belichick
It's difficult to reflect on this offseason without acknowledging that the NFL's most esteemed coach, who guided the Patriots for the past 24 seasons, will no longer be a sideline fixture on Sundays.
However, we are now in the 'What have you done for me lately?' era. Unfortunately, this trend does not favor Belichick, given his recent lack of significant contributions to the team.
Ultimately, it was time to cut the proverbial cord with Belichick. It was a mutual breakup where Belichick showed he could thrive in the media and the Patriots showed the NFL that they're serious about getting back into the business of winning football games.
I do believe this decision will work out best for both parties. Both needed a clean start and a chance to rebrand.