Patriots Free Agency Takeaways: Right Moves, Next Steps

Romeo Doubs is a Solid Fit within Josh McDaniels’ Offense

While the Patriots will miss the statistical prowess of two-time All Pro Stefon Diggs [who, last year, became New England’s first 1,000-yard receiver since 2019] they have added a pass-catcher who may be a better logistical fit within their offense. Last season, Romeo Doubs logged 55 catches for a career-high 724 yards and six touchdowns with the Green Bay Packers — the most statistically productive season of his career. The 25-year-old has compiled 2,424 yards in his four years with the Pack, and is now set to become a notable target for quarterback Drake Maye

While they may have missed the opportunity to add fan-coveted deep threat Alec Pierce — who re-signed with the Indianapolis Colts — the Pats will greatly benefit from adding Doubs due to his capability of quickly getting open on early downs. In fact, Doubs possess nearly all the pre-requisites of a successful receiver in McDaniels’ system. Having signed to the tune of a four-year deal worth a base of $68 million, he is also poised to provide a solid return on investment.

At his best, Doubs is capable of making compact catches and has relatively sure hands — even through contact. Aligning almost exclusively on the outside with the Packers, he also has the route-running savvy and skills to play more inside as a power slot. Still, he is at his best on the perimeter when routinely creating separation at the top of his routes — a role he is expected to play for the majority of his Patriots’ tenure.

Patriots are Building a Run-Blocking Army

Although much of the fan base’s attention has been directed toward an upgrade of the Patriots passing game — or stockpiling ‘weapons’ for Drake Maye — the Patriots have actually been building quite a formidable run-blocking offense. New England’s unit improved from being ranked at No. 32 in 2024 to No. 12 in 2025 — due largely in part to veteran right tackle Morgan Moses (ranked No. 18 in run-blocking grade from PFF) and incumbent right guard Mike Onwenu leading the charge.

The Patriots have used free agency wisely, as they hope to provide backs Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson additional protection in 2026. The club signed dedicated run-blockers Reggie Gilliam at fullback and Julian Hill at tight end — notably upgrading their prowess in their respective positions. Despite missing the entirety of 2025 due to injury, new starting left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker was given a 76.3 Run Blocking Grade in 2024, Lastly, Doubs is also eager to contribute as a blocker, making him a desirable option for the Pats at receiver.

In light of these savvy additions, New England may focus its attention on adding additional high-power tackles via the 2026 NFL Draft to secure long-term, dominant run blocking in New England for the foreseeable future.

Pass-Rush Remains an Area of Need

Heading into the start of free agency, the pass rush was near-unanimously identified as the area on the Patriots roster in greatest need of attention. While it should be noted that New England’s defensive front was far from its biggest problem in 2025, the need for some youthful strength and speed in this area is one that needed to be addressed.

Harold Landry, who was hampered down the stretch by a knee injury he suffered in Week 13, could use some help along the edge in the form of a full-time pass rusher. The team finished tied for 26th in the NFL in sacks (35). The pass rush continued their struggles in the team’s 29-13 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Super Bowl LX — managing only one sack on Seattle quarterback Sam Darnold.

Though the signing of former Titans defender Dre’Mont Jones adds some much-needed size and strength to the Pats’ front seven, the club is expected to bolster the pass rush with their first pick in this April’s draft.

Texas A&M’s Cashius Howell is likely to be atop the club’s wish list. However, he may not be there for the Pats to select at No. 31. In that regard, other names to watch are Oklahoma’s R. Mason Thomas, Miami’s Akheem Mesidor and Missouri’s Zion Young.