The Patriots should be interested in signing these free agents

In order to get their offer in for Higgins, New England will have to get lucky. He is eligible for a franchise tag, and currently, there is little to suggest that Cincinnati will not keep the 24-year-old for another year.

Additionally, the Patriots’ instability at head coach and quarterback may discourage Higgins from signing, as he will be fielding offers from more attractive teams. If the Patriots want to sign Higgins, they will need to hope he avoids the franchise tag and has faith in the Patriots’ future.

Mekhi Becton, New York Jets offensive tackle

The Patriots are slated to lose starting offensive linemen Trent Brown and Michael Onwenu to free agency during the upcoming offseason, and divisional rival Mekhi Becton is one of the top available replacements in the league. 

Becton was a prime pick in the 2020 draft, but has dealt with injury issues. The 2023 season was Becton’s first real chance to display his talents, and he played commendably amidst the Jets’ quarterback fiasco. 

Becton would currently be downgrade from the aforementioned Patriots offensive linemen, but he is serviceable by all means, and would be an overall solid addition to the team and an important piece to New England’s front line.

PFF described Becton as someone who “always had the athletic ability to play at a high level in [the NFL].” With the right coaching, the 24-year-old could see a jump in production, which would be a win-win scenario for himself and the Patriots. 

The Patriots offensive line was consistently a weakness of the team throughout the Mac Jones era. By employing Becton, the Patriots will be taking a step in the right direction to protect what will likely be a rookie quarterback. 

Antoine Winfield Jr., Tampa Bay Buccaneers safety

With key Patriots safety Kyle Dugger poised to be a free agent this offseason, the Patriots can seek an alternative option in Antoine Winfield Jr. 

Winfield Jr. is a former Super Bowl champion and Pro Bowler. This season, he has recorded three interceptions and five forced fumbles. When ESPN conducted a survey in July 2022, Winfield Jr. was voted as the 10th-best safety in the league.

The Patriots would have to be willing to spend a lot to sign Winfield Jr. — the best safety in his free agent class — but it would be worth it. 

He would elevate New England’s already strong defense, and could be an upgrade over Dugger assuming Winfield Jr. fits the Patriots’ defensive style.

The Patriots are just a few players away from being a competitive team in the NFL. If they have a strong offseason and draft, the team may transform into the best it has been since Tom Brady left.