How did the Patriots do in free agency?

It was a hectic week for Mike Vrabel and the Patriots as they looked to fill some of the holes on their squad.

When the New England Patriots lost the Super Bowl in February, it was easy to see how much work the team still had to do from a roster construction standpoint. Free agency allowed them to address some of the roster issues before the draft (where they have 11! picks).

Defense was a big focus.

The Patriots ARE a Mike Vrabel led team, after all. Defensive End Dre'Mont Jones from the Baltimore Ravens signed with New England. Jones had seven sacks and 43 total tackles on the year after coming over from Tennessee at the deadline. He'll fill the role left by K'Lavon Chaisson who signed a one year deal with the Washington Commanders.

Safety Kevin Byard III was also a big piece, replacing Jaylinn Hawkins who signed with the Ravens. Byard was with Vrabel on the Titans and is a three time Pro Bowler. The veteran had 7 interceptions last season, which ranked number one in the NFL. The 32 year old still has some great football left and brings that talent to a team with Craig Woodson as the other safety. Woodson is coming off a tremendous rookie year and the two will look to solidify the back end of New England's defense.

Talar Kawhajian/2025

Yes, they addressed offense, too.

'Drake Maye needs more help!' Stop me if you've heard that before. It's extremely accurate and the organization was well aware. One of their first offensive signings was Reggie Gilliam from the Buffalo Bills. While not a name that jumps off the page, Gilliam is a fullback that opened up the running game in a major way for James Cook and Josh Allen. Josh McDaniels loves a fullback in his offense to really get the ground game going and this move will give Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson more breathing room.

How about that O-line?! One of the biggest pieces to the Patriots offensive puzzle that has been a carousel for years now. Vrabel and his team went out and signed Alijah Vera-Tucker, a guard who can play multiple positions on the line. He's dealt with some injury issues in the past, but if he can stay healthy he's an All-Pro caliber guard that will protect Drake Maye.

Finally, Romeo Doubs. The 25 year old receiver from Green Bay made a splash by signing with New England on a four year, $68 million dollar deal. He has potential to be a number 1 receiver (although I'm sure the Patriots still have their eyes on AJ Brown). Doubs brings a real threat to a receiving room that just couldn't get much done in the playoffs and Super Bowl last season.

There were other depth signings as well, which is a great sign since last season's roster lacked depth all over the place. The Patriots are still under the cap and according to 'Over the Cap' they have about $43.8 million still to play with. It's an exciting road ahead for the Patriots who are looking to secure another AFC East crown and trip to the Super Bowl.