The Patriots' defensive line was a revolving door of practice-squad players by the end of the season last year. After a few injuries their lack of depth was exposed. Red Bryant has been a productive rotational member of the dominant Seattle Seahawks defensive line, and the Patriots showed interest in him back in 2012 before the Seahawks gave him a big deal. Now that he's been cut by Seattle, the Patriots have been rumored to be showing interest again.
Aqib Talib is one of the most controversial players we've seen on the Patriots in a while. He plays well, but he can't stay healthy. His off-field issues have been a problem in the past, but as far as we know he's been a good citizen since coming to New England. He's likely to command big money on the open market — money that the Patriots probably can't afford to match.
New England can use both depth and veteran leadership on the defense. Former Cleveland Browns linebacker D'Qwell Jackson would serve both purposes. And, after being cut by Cleveland, he should come with a reasonable price tag.
Danny Amendola was a disappointment last year, mainly because he couldn't stay healthy. Yeah, I know, shocking. But, this is one rumor that isn't going to happen. Because of the way that the contract is structured, cutting him this year wouldn't save them any money. There is no reason for the Patriots to let him go this offseason. They might as well keep him around and hope he can stay healthy next year. Hey, stop laughing!
Unfortunately, or maybe not, this is another rumor that sounds better than it really is. Unless Darrelle Revis agrees to a massive pay cut after the Patriots make a trade for him, he comes with a $16 million cap hit this year — a number they can't afford. A former shut-down corner who lost about three steps after his knee injury, today he's better suited as a slot corner who can be a good nickle guy. Basically, he's a smidge better than Kyle Arrington. Now that certainly isn't worth $16 million next year.
