Patriots Reportedly Rework D-Lineman’s Contract, Create Cap Space

The New England Patriots didn’t have much cap space early in the offseason, but they sure made some calculations to “fix the problem.” The team released veteran linebacker Kyle Van Noy and added a few millions to their cap space. They also made a few moves to increase the number.

Field Yates from ESPN reported that the Patriots reworked Henry Anderson’s deal and added $1.25 million in cap space. His base salary was estimated at $2.5 million and now he is getting $1.25 million as base salary.

The Patriots and DL Henry Anderson have agreed to a reworked contract that pays him a base salary of $1.25M (down from $2.5M) for 2022.

Anderson can make up the salary difference through easier playtime incentives than were in his initial deal. The team adds $1.25M in cap space.

— Field Yates (@FieldYates) March 19, 2022

Patriots play smart with their cap space

Anderson, 31, joined the Patriots in 2021 as a free agent. Bill Belichick spent a lot of money last offseason and got a bunch of free agents. Some of these players didn’t meet expectations though. Team owner Robert Kraft told Belichick that he has to boost the roster. Belichick understood the assignment and singed great players. Well, most of them were great. The Patriots head coach spent most of his money. The team doesn’t have the same cap space this season. They have to play smart. Belichick will have to make some cuts to increase the cap space. Getting great players at a cheaper price is also an option and there are a lot of opportunities at the moment.

NFL analysts linked Anderson to Belichick’s roster long before the Patriots signed him. He spent time with the Indianapolis Colts and New York Jets and has great experience. Anderson is a good fit for the Patriots’ defense and Belichick got him at the right time.

The Patriots have to add depth to the linebacker unit. Van Noy is gone now. Shaq Mason left the team, too. New England signed Terrance Mitchell and Ty Montgomery in free agency. Belichick didn’t stop here and he will make a few more moves.

New England has a great starting quarterback, but they have to give him enough weapons. There’s plenty of time and the Patriots are free to choose. Who is the next player to join the 2022 Patriots roster? Matthew Judon recruited a few targets.