The New England Patriots made about as many big moves as any team this offseason. What are the lingering questions from their 2025 offseason?
How big of a leap will the defense take?
There may not be a unit with any more significant additions this offseason. Harold Landry is a pass rusher first, and he will line up across from Keion White, who can get after the passer but has the size and presence to set the edge. The powerful Christian Barrmore will now see the quick Milton Williams next to him.
Robert Spillane will be the MIKE inside, and Carlton Davis joins Christian Gonzalez to have a fierce outside duo. They hit all of their needs, now how much of an impact will it have?
Can Craig Woodson and Marcus Epps get Jabrill Peppers in the box more?
The Patriots signed Marcus Epps from the Raiders and drafted Craig Woodson in the fourth round. Both are more likely to play free safety, which is notable because Jabrill Peppers took that role last year. Peppers is always better in the box, but he is so athletic that most teams have to play him deep. Getting his speed in the box next to Spillane with one of these two play free opposite the strong Kyle Dugger would be ideal.
How will Treveyon Henderson vs Rhamondre Stevenson split?
One of the biggest reasons Rhamondre Stevenson was a stud in fantasy football was because of his pass catching. In his breakout 2022 he was over 60 receptions. That is going to be put to a halt with Treveyon Henderson.
Henderson is not only a good pass catching back, he is the best pass protector in the class. Stevenson may have value in goal line situations, but he is now a two-down grinder while Henderson will get more valuable touches in fantasy football.
How will wide receivers play out?
The Patriots’ wide receivers were not getting the job done. Between Mack Hollins, Stefon Diggs, and Kyle Williams, the Patriots may have added three starters. Pop Douglas will mix in as a slot, but this regime did not add him.
Early on it will be Douglas in the slot with Hollins and Diggs out wide. However, as the rookie Williams works in, both Douglas and Diggs will begin to lose snaps. Meanwhile 2024 draft picks Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker are hoping they can get cut to catch on elsewhere.
How improved is the offensive line, and is Jared Wilson the answer at center?
The New England Patriots completely revamped their offensive line. Morgan Moses, Garrett Bradbury, and Will Campbell will all start as new additions. Moses is older, Bradbury was let go by the Vikings, and Campbell is a rookie. Still, this group could be significantly upgraded. Another big development is the team drafting the top center in the draft, albeit in the third round. If they can hit on center and left tackle in this draft, they are set up in a major way.
