Based on some recent rumors and speculation, it looks like the New England Patriots could have an absurd amount of cap space to burn on several top free agents this spring.
Entering this offseason, the Patriots were already expected to have a serious amount of cap space to use on free agents that could improve the roster. Furthermore, after a 4-13 finish to the 2023-24 and new head coach Jerod Mayo leading the team, the organization has the motivation to make some big splashes on the open market.
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As of now, New England has just over $77 million in cap space, via OverTheCap. However, a new report revealed that the salary cap could get a whopping $30 million boost over original estimates and top out at $255 million for each franchise.
The Patriots could free up even more space if they cut cornerback JC Jackson. Removing him from their payroll would add another $14 million and there is no dead cap money tied to his contract. If the Pats chose to go that route it could mean entering 2024 NFL free agency with well over $100 million to spend.
Obviously, there are some players they will look to retain that would eat into that number, but let’s look at five elite players they could still target to help make them turn into a serious contender in the AFC East next season.
5 star free agents the New England Patriots could pursue with their boatload of cash
Kirk Cousins
One of the most glaring weaknesses on the New England Patriots roster heading into next season is quarterback. Mac Jones was a disaster last year and improving the most important position on the field will be a priority. Considering the huge amount of money they have available, going after four-time Pro Bowler Kirk Cousins is very possible.
He has played like an elite-level signal caller the last two seasons –when healthy — and would be a massive upgrade on offense. It would also allow the team to use the third-overall pick in April’s draft on wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. A player with can’t-miss potential.
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Mike Evans
If the team prefers to take one of the young quarterbacks with their top pick in the NFL Draft, pursuing five-time Pro Bowler Mike Evans to make life easier for that rookie QB would make a lot of sense. Evans is still a sensational player and a three-year deal with a high AAV should work for both sides.
Tyron Smith
The Pats need help on the offensive line, especially at tackle. Dallas Cowboys veteran Tyron Smith has battled injuries in recent years, but when he is on the field there are few better than the eight-time Pro Bowler. Surely, there are risks in signing the 33-year-old, but adding him would be a huge help for the rookie QB they draft or the expensive veteran they sign in free agency.
Danielle Hunter
Minnesota Vikings defensive star Danielle Hunter has been one of the best pass rushers in the game over the last five seasons. He has posted 10 or more sacks in four of those years and topped out with a career-best 16.5 in 2023-24.
While the Patriots were good at stopping the run last season, they were the sixth-worst team in the league when it comes to getting to the quarterback. The 29-year-old would address that and still has a couple more elite years left in him.
Chris Jones
Chris Jones is looking to be paid like a superstar, and while the Kansas City Chiefs will try and do that the Patriots actually have the money to meet his demands. The five-time Pro Bowler is arguably the best player on the market this year not just because of his consistent play as a high-level pass rusher in the regular season. His outstanding play in the postseason as he helped the Chiefs win three Super Bowl titles is invaluable.
If New England wants to change the culture and narrative around the team, Jones would quickly do that on and off the field.