The Patriots offense has struggled mightily throughout the 2024 campaign, ranking towards the bottom of the league in scoring and yardage. Unsurprisingly, the organization will prioritize two offensive positional groupings this offseason. Christopher Price of the Boston Globe believes the team will target wide receivers and offensive linemen via the draft, free agency, and trades.
Patriots wideouts have had to endure Jacoby Brissett‘s underwhelming starting stint and Drake Maye‘s growing pains, but no one in the room has established themselves as a definitive difference maker. Demario Douglas has somewhat separated himself from his position mates, as the former sixth-round pick has built on a solid rookie campaign to lead New England WRs in receptions (63) and receiving yards (587), and touchdowns (three) as a sophomore.
New England hasn’t gotten much from their two rookie wideouts. Second-round pick Ja’Lynn Polk has been limited to 12 catches, while fourth-round receiver Javon Baker has been limited to 51 offensive snaps. Kayshon Boutte and Kendrick Bourne do provide some worthy depth, but the team clearly needs a WR1 to pair with Maye.
That solution could easily come via the draft, as the Patriots are currently in prime position to select Colorado two-way star Travis Hunter. The organization could also easily look to free agency, especially since they should rank towards the top of the league in practical cap space. The Patriots have already been connected to Bengals star Tee Higgins, and the front office showed a willingness to pay for the position following their failed pursuit of Calvin Ridley last offseason.
The offensive line has allowed 51 sacks this season (fifth-worst in the NFL), and besides guard Mike Onwenu (and perhaps injured center David Andrews), the Patriots will be looking to improve every starting spot this offseason. Guard Trey Smith will likely lead the OL class, but the team should still have plenty of options to choose from at offensive tackle. The draft also remains an option for a sure-thing starter, although that would surely require the Patriots to trade back from their projected number-one pick.
The front office can rest easy knowing they have a handful of positional groupings handled. Maye has shown encouraging flashes during his rookie campaign, and the team has RB Rhamondre Stevenson and TE Hunter Henry signed to long-term deals.