Two Major Fixes Patriots Must Make This Offseason

The New England Patriots are entering an important offseason. Head coach Bill Belichick will have to make some big decisions, and he needs to target a few big positions. The Patriots finished the 2020 season with a 7-9 record. This was the first terrible season since 2000.

The Patriots head coach had his hands full in order to regain control over the division. Belichick dominated the division for two decades. Tom Brady’s departure changed everything. He signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, leaving Belichick with empty hands. Belichick signed veteran quarterback Cam Newton to a one-year deal. However, the 2015 NFL MVP failed to meet expectations. In fact, he had the worst season in his career.

Patriots have a busy offseason

Patriots scouts will have to focus on the offensive side of the ball. The defense will soon regain its former shape. Dont’a Hightower and Patrick Chung will return in 2021, and Belichick won’t have to try too hard to pack his defense.

Patriots have to find next quarterback

New England has a big hole under center. Jarrett Stidham isn’t ready to take the leading role. The Patriots may find their next quarterback in the 2021 NFL Draft or free agency.

One quarterback may be willing to agree to a one-year deal with Belichick’s Patriots. New England would gladly offer Ryan Fitzpatrick to a one-year deal. He played nine games in 2020, finishing the season with 2,091 passing yards and 13 touchdowns.

Fitzpatrick would be a great bridge quarterback until the team can find the right quarterback for the long-term deal.

Here comes the draft. The Patriots have the 15^th pick at the moment. This puts them on the outside of drafting one of the best four prospects in the NFL. If the Patriots want to get a top prospect, they will have to trade up to get the player they want.

Trey Lance and Jamie Newman should be added to Belichick’s list.

Wide receivers

Allen Robinson, Chris Godwin, and JuJu Smith-Schuster are great free-agent options. The Patriots can always add a player through the draft. Rashod Bateman and Elijah Moore are good options.