The New England Patriots are coming off two straight 4-13 seasons, landing them at the bottom of the AFC East. While not where Robert Kraft expects his team to be, there’s hope for a turnaround with new head coach Mike Vrabel and the promising Drake Maye, who showed star potential as a rookie quarterback.
With the most cap space in the league ($127.6 million) and the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the Patriots have the resources to rebuild quickly. Here are five key moves they should make this offseason to improve for 2025 and beyond.
Sign Ronnie Stanley as starting left tackle
The Patriots have neglected the tackle positions in recent years, which has been a major factor in their struggles. The offensive line has been inconsistent, creating problems for both Drake Maye and Jacoby Brissett under center. This can’t continue. Specifically, the team needs a reliable left tackle, and luckily, Ronnie Stanley is set to hit free agency. While Stanley will be 31 next season, the Patriots can’t afford to be too selective.
They need to protect Maye, and Stanley, who earned a Pro Bowl nod in 2024 while allowing just two sacks according to Pro Football Focus, is a proven option. With ample cap space and Maye still on his rookie contract, the Patriots have the flexibility to make a move for Stanley. While it may not be the flashiest signing, it’s crucial for the success of the offense.
Sign Morgan Moses as stopgap right tackle
As mentioned with Stanley, the Patriots’ offensive line is their biggest weakness. They not only need to shore up left tackle but also need a reliable right tackle, especially if they view Mike Onwenu—who signed a $57 million extension last offseason—as a guard. While the draft can be a long-term solution for the tackle spots, the Patriots can’t afford to wait. Morgan Moses, a proven right tackle, is a solid option.
At 33, he allowed just two sacks for the Jets last season, making him an ideal short-term signing. Moses would provide the Patriots with a veteran presence on the right side while they continue to develop a long-term solution at tackle.
Sign Chris Godwin as top wideout
After strengthening the offensive line, New England must address its wide receiver group, which was arguably the worst in the NFL in 2024. The top receiver available in free agency is Tampa Bay’s Chris Godwin, and the Patriots should make a strong push to outbid other teams for him.
When healthy, Godwin is an elite pass catcher (he’s recovering from a season-ending ankle injury) and would provide valuable experience to help develop young receivers like Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, both 2024 draft picks. Godwin would also be a reliable go-to target for Maye, with the potential to become the Patriots’ first 1,000-yard receiver since Julian Edelman in 2019.
Sign Milton Williams to solidify the defensive line
Mike Vrabel emphasized in his opening press conference that building through the trenches is key to NFL success. With the Patriots sitting on a significant amount of cap space, they have the opportunity to target several top-tier free agents this offseason. While addressing the offensive line and wide receiver is a priority, they also have the funds to strengthen their defensive line.
Milton Williams of Philadelphia may not be a household name, but he played a crucial role in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LVII victory and would be a valuable addition to New England’s defensive front. At just 26 years old, Williams would also be a solid long-term fit for the team’s future.
Draft Abdul Carter at No. 4 overall (if he’s there)
Ideally, the Patriots would address as many roster needs as possible through free agency and the trade market before the 2025 NFL Draft, allowing them to take a “best player available” approach. However, if they aren’t able to fill those holes, they may be forced to draft an offensive tackle or receiver with the No. 4 overall pick. That said, if Abdul Carter is available when New England is on the clock, they should waste no time selecting him. Carter is a top-tier edge rusher and arguably the best overall prospect in the draft.
While it’s unlikely he falls to the Patriots, the teams ahead of them are all focused on quarterbacks, so New England can hope Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders are highly valued and taken early. If that happens, either Carter or Colorado’s Travis Hunter could be available. Both would be great additions, but Carter plays a more premium position and fills a more pressing need for the Patriots.
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