Report: New England Patriots Legend Predicted to Be a Salary Cap Casualty

The New England Patriots have enough salary cap to make big moves in the offseason. Plus, they have a few valuable players to use in potential trade deals. Where does this leave veteran wideout Julian Edelman?

Edelman joined the Patriots in the 2009 NFL Draft. The team selected him in the 7^th round of the draft. But, Edelman will have to go at some point in his career. Will he leave the Patriots in the offseason? Will he retire? Well, reitiring is not on the menu right now.

Patriots could handle their salary cap situation really well

Bill Barnwell from ESPN believes that Edelman has played his last game as a Patriot. According to Barnwell, Edelman is on his way to Tampa Bay.

“Another expected cap casualty, Edelman is unlikely to see the $4 million remaining on the final year of his deal with New England. Thankfully, there’s a natural place for him to go: If Chris Godwin leaves Tampa Bay, the idea of Edelman flocking south to take over as Tampa’s part-time slot receiver almost seems too obvious. The days of Edelman catching 100 passes in a season are over, but he would be a familiar option on third downs and in key situations for Tom Brady.

“Projected: One year, $1.5 million from the Buccaneers”

New England could use the money to get a younger receiver. Matthew Slater may be the next to go. He is a free agent and yes, he may not return to the field in 2021.

Rob Gronkowski came out of his retirement to join Brady and the Buccaneers. He was traded for a 4^th-round pick. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made the Super Bowl. Reuniting with Brady and Gronk seems like a good idea right now.

Barnwell believes that the Patriots will try to get Chris Godwin from the Bucs. If Belichick gets Godwin, Edelman can join the Buccaneers.

Tampa Bay is pretty packed with talent at wide receiver. New England lacks receiving power. Rookie Tyler Johnson and Scotty Miller are ready for huge roles. Godwin can easily leave the team at this point.