The New England Patriots finished off their 2024 NFL draft process last weekend, taking eight new players in the seven-round event after making one trade over the three days.
Now, the Patriots, like the other 31 teams, have turned their attention to roster building through free agency again after filling some of their biggest holes.
After signing defensive lineman Christian Barmore to a massive extension earlier in the week, New England is set to enter this next wave of free agency with $50.78 million in cap space, according to Over the Cap. That's the most space in the NFL, with the Washington Commanders having the second most ($43.44 million).
What can the Patriots do with this? Well, there are a few options.
New England's roster still has holes. They could use some of that money to add a veteran either through free agency or a trade. There aren't many true difference-makers left on the market, so the latter option might be the better one.
That could mean trading for Tee Higgins or Brandon Aiyuk or taking a swing on veterans like Odell Beckham Jr. or Stephon Gilmore.
The Patriots have also used a lot of money this offseason to retain their own talent, and that trend could continue. Matthew Judon, Jonathon Jones and Jabrill Peppers are all set to hit free agency after the season, so it might be worth looking into extensions.
The least popular option with fans will be carrying over the money. New England could take that $50 million with them into next season when they are hopefully more ready to compete. They're already set to have $128.93 million in cap space next year. They could add to that total and really go all out in free agency and the trade market.
