Jerod Mayo, the new head coach of the New England Patriots, may not begin his coaching tenure with a significant free-agent signing. The Patriots are interested in Calvin Ridley, who is currently the top available wide receiver in free agency. Ridley, who was the Jacksonville Jaguars’ leader in receiving yards and touchdowns last season, is said to be deciding between New England and Jacksonville. However, according to ESPN, Ridley is leaning towards staying with Jacksonville.
In the meantime, the Jaguars have secured a three-year deal with wide receiver Gabe Davis, as a precautionary measure in case Calvin Ridley signs with another team.
During a press conference in January, Jerod Mayo mentioned that the Patriots would be prepared to spend money. However, he later clarified that New England would be careful and strategic in how they use their funds.
The Patriots are focused on acquiring players who can contribute to their success over the long term, rather than just immediate gains. While they had significant funds available for player signings, they have prioritized retaining their own key players instead of pursuing new star acquisitions.
They placed a special designation on safety Kyle Dugger, indicating their intention to negotiate a longer-term contract with him. Additionally, they signed lineman Michael Onwenu to a three-year, $57 million deal. The team also retained wide receivers Kendrick Bourne and Jalen Reagor, as well as tight end Hunter Henry.
The Patriots have indeed added some new players, but the focus has been on strengthening the team rather than acquiring star players. They reached a deal with Jacoby Brissett for a one-year contract worth $8 million. Instead of pursuing a well-known running back, they opted for Antonio Gibson, agreeing to a three-year, $11.25 million deal for him.
While both Brissett and Gibson are expected to make an impact in the upcoming season, their exact roles remain uncertain. The Patriots are likely to select a quarterback with the No. 3 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft and already have a standout running back in Rhamondre Stevenson.
Despite these moves, adding Ridley would be the icing on the cake for Mayo’s impressive first offseason as head coach.
