The New England Patriots have made some significant moves in the free-agent market this week in an attempt to bolster their roster for a Super Bowl run next season.
The headline of the offseason is the team’s reported contract agreement with elite cornerback Darrelle Revis. The 28-year-old former AFC defensive player of the year agreed to a one-year deal on Wednesday after being released by the Buccaneers following just one season in Tampa Bay.
Revis will replace Aqib Talib, who departed to join the Denver Broncos as a free agent, as the Patriots’ top cornerback next season. New England upgraded at the position with a more talented and durable player, while also not having to commit to a long-term deal. It certainly was a shrewd move by head coach Bill Belichick.
The other major addition on defense is cornerback Brandon Browner, who reportedly agreed to a three-year deal worth $17 million on Friday. This move is a more of a risk than the Revis addition because Browner will serve a four-game suspension to start the season and only played in eight games for the Seattle Seahawks last year. If he’s able to stay on the field, Browner should provide the Patriots with much-needed size and strength in the secondary, which is something this defense has lacked for a long time.
The Patriots also made an important move on offense by agreeing to a contract with wide receiver Julian Edelman, per ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The 27-year-old was Tom Brady’s top target last season and led the team in catches, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns and targets.
Even after making these moves, the Patriots likely aren’t done configuring their roster. Decisions still need to be made at several positions, including the future of veteran defensive tackle Vince Wilfork.
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