The New England Patriots have done a great job of getting strong free agent options at reasonable prices. Their offense was a picture of that in 2014 as they benefitted from great play from Julian Edelman and Brandon LaFell who both signed contracts prior to the 2014 season. Meanwhile, their high-priced players like Danny Amendola had a disappearing act once again. Looking to strike gold once again, could the Patriots be looking at wide receivers to help build up the offense following their Super Bowl win?
According to CBS Sports' Jason La Canfora, Percy Harvin is being eyed by the Patriots as a solid option to add to the roster. However, there are a lot of things that will have to happen before New England would even consider the receiver. First, the New York Jets must release him. Because of his contract, the Patriots will not even blink at a trade for Harvin. However, if released the Patriots could convince Harvin to agree to a smaller contract with the team.
La Canfora writes that Patriots might be the best option for Harvin considering he would greatly benefit from having Tom Brady throw him the ball. Harvin is in need of getting his career back on trade and fitting into the Bill Belichick offense is the best way to do that. The receiver put up 483 yards and one touchdown with the Jets last season and would work well in tandem with Edelman and LaFell.
New England might be eyeing affordable free agent receivers on the market especially after players like Amendola and Aaron Dobson struggled yet again. Players like Hakeem Nicks, Andre Holmes and Cecil Shorts could all be affordable options for the Patriots if Harvin is not available.
The Patriots must also make the ground game a priority. Shane Vereen and Stevan Ridley are not likely to return as they both hit free agency. New England has LeGarrette Blount returning for one more year on his contract, but could use to add another player to the mix. The team could try and grab an affordable veteran like DeAngelo Williams or Frank Gore to add to the roster. They could also eye running backs in the draft as this year is high on talent. Todd Gurley or TJ Yeldon both fit the mold of typical Patriots running backs.