Patriots Games

There has been much reaction and over-reaction to Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots NFL free agent spending spree. I think much of it misses the point. The team had roster needs and $60 million in cap space to spend in an environment where most of the other teams were cap strapped. It's basically that simple.

The signings addressed needs at tight end, receiver, defensive line, and pass rush. Belichick loves competition for roster spots and now he has it to the point where there may not be many spots left for new draft picks.

The remaining needs are at center where I would really like to see them bring back David Andrews who is a free agent and a key piece to the offensive line. Kicker where Nick Folk is likely to return (IMHO). And QB where I don't think anyone believes Cam Newton is any sort of long term (or short term) solution.

I don't see the Pats being able to move up significantly in the draft to grab one of the top 4 QB prospects (though could be wrong). I could see them staying put at the 15th pick and taking Alabama QB Mac Jones to be Newton's protege for a season. Failing that trading a 4th round pick to the Jaguars for Gardner Minshew and his mustache.

Just to be clear - the moves that Belichick made had nothing to do with Tom Brady winning the Super Bowl and everything to do with just trying to field a more competitive roster. Mission accomplished on that front. Optimistic that we're looking at least an 11-5 season coming up and a return to the playoffs. Really optimistic view - the Patriots may have just put together the best defense in the NFL.