The Patriots boasted the NFL’s best offense in 2012, racking up 428 yards and almost 35 points per game during the regular season. Yet, there are a number of moving pieces on offense this offseason and even the NFL’s best still have room for improvement.
Tom Brady‘s unit will have to manage nine free agents this offseason, including wide receiver Wes Welker, right tackle Sebastian Vollmer and running back Danny Woodhead. The potential loss of one or multiple key pieces should make Bill Belichick even more focused on signing some top-notch free agents and managing some glaring needs.
Welker is the biggest — at least in name — of the in-house free agents, but the wide receiver appears set for a repeat of last offseason’s franchise tag fiasco. Even if signed, the Patriots will need more help on the outside.
The Patriots must address their receiver position more than any other offensive need. The indecision on Welker and uncertain future of Brandon Lloyd make it a top priority. So, finding a few valuable options to either replace or augment that production will be key.
Vollmer’s potential absence will also be a big story to watch. He will likely be back with the team, whether via a contract extension or franchise tag, but if he decides to follow the money trail the Patriots could be in deep trouble. The rest of the line can remain fairly intact, but the interior could use some improvement, which brings about another potential need.
There are plenty of other areas to consider on offense in order to help get this team back to the Super Bowl in 2013. So, in light of that desire, let’s take a look at some potential free agents the Patriots could pursue this offseason.
Click here to see the Patriots’ Top 10 Free Agent Targets >>
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