The New England Patriots are being forced to look at Plan B options in free agency after opting to not sign players like Reggie Bush or Percy Harvin to contracts. The team appears to still be set on adding one more offensive weapon either to the wide receiver or running back position, but options are starting to dwindle leading into the NFL Draft. If the Patriots want affordable options for Tom Brady, there are plenty of veterans on the market.
According to Mark Reiss of ESPN.com, the Patriots are looking at replacement options after not signing Harvin or Bush. They did sign Brandon Gibson to a contract along with Scott Chandler, but could use one more versatile player in the bunch. Several veterans are waiting on the market in hopes of getting a contract and the Patriots would be wise to look around.
Reiss suggests that a running back be a priority and Pierre Thomas or Knowshon Moreno could be solid options. The Patriots have LeGarrette Blount returning who is a down-field, bruising rusher and they could use someone who is a little more quick and better in the passing game after Shane Vereen left. Thomas would be a wise choice after he was released by the New Orleans Saints. The veteran running back is a strong utility man as both a catcher and rusher. He caught 122 passes in the past two seasons. Moreno is a bit more of a question mark for teams. He had career-high numbers in 2013, but missed almost all of 2014 with injuries after signing with the Miami Dolphins. He would be a strong addition if healthy.
If the Patriots still want a wide receiver, they have options. Greg Jennings was just released by the Minnesota Vikings and would come cheap for New England. The veteran receiver might not be an every-down guy, but would work well in a rotation with Danny Amendola and Gibson. The same could be said for Dwayne Bowe who was released by Kansas City. Both veterans would agree to short-term deals.
Players like Michael Crabtree and Hakeem Nicks would require a little bit more commitment. They are young and athletic, but might seek a two-year deal or more given their age. The Patriots simply need to decide how badly they thing another offensive weapon is needed.