Recapping one of the wildest days for the Patriots in recent memory
When Mike Vrabel told the public that he was going to be aggressive in free agency, he wasn't kidding. The New England Patriots added many talented pieces to their roster on Monday, mostly on defense. And that included the top free agent available this offseason. The day before the legal tampering period began, the Patriots […]
When Mike Vrabel told the public that he was going to be aggressive in free agency, he wasn't kidding.
The New England Patriots added many talented pieces to their roster on Monday, mostly on defense. And that included the top free agent available this offseason.
The day before the legal tampering period began, the Patriots signed OLB Harold Landry to a three-year deal and brought back TE Austin Hooper. But so much more has happened.
So, let's recap one of the craziest days for the Patriots:
Patriots Sign Milton Williams
All signs pointed to the Carolina Panthers signing defensive tackle Milton Williams. But, then Vrabel and the Patriots stepped in.
In a shocking move on Monday, New England signed Williams to a four year, $104 million deal. He was the top free agent available, and while there was some fear that players wouldn't want to come to the Patriots, Vrabel has proved that he is able to attract some key pieces. That clearly includes Williams.
Plus, Williams officially has the largest deal in franchise history
Patriots Sign CB Carlton Davis
While the Patriots have Christian Gonzalez, they needed someone to play opposite him. And that guy is former Detroit Lions cornerback Carlton Davis III.
They both have proved that they can cover some of the top receivers in the league. Plus, he's already familiar with Patriots defensive coordinator Terrell Williams, who last served as the Lions defensive line coach.
Patriots Sign LB Robert Spillane
The Patriots have been bringing in many former players that have ties to the coaching staff, and linebacker Robert Spillane was no different. He spent time with Mike Vrabel in 2018 when he was signed to Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent.
In the last two seasons with the Raiders, he started every game and totaled 173 tackles with 5.5 sacks and 11 passes defended.
Patriots Sign RT Morgan Moses
Tackle was one of the biggest needs this offseason for the Patriots, and they looked towards another player in the AFC East. The 34-year-old tackle has plenty of experience and will help protect Drake Maye, giving him time in the pocket.
While they have Caedan Wallace, he was injured for much of his rookie season and now the Patriots don't have to rush his development and can focus on making him the tackle of the future.
Patriots Sign DT Khyiris Tonga
With Christian Barmore's status unknown for the 2024 season, the Patriots brought in some more help at defensive tackle. Khyiris Tonga has mainly been a backup during his time in the league, but has had success as a pass rusher.
Patriots Sign QB Josh Dobbs
With Drake Maye is clearly the Patriots quarterback of the future and Joe Milton has proved himself to be a solid backup, the team needed a veteran presence in the room. So, New England brought in Josh Dobbs.
Dobbs played for Vrabel when he was with the Titans in 2022, but is now joining the Patriots, which marks the 10th team he's played for in the NFL.
Patriots Sign WR Mack Hollins
While it's not the big name wide receiver that fans were hoping for, the Patriots brought in a solid veteran target who has experience playing for Josh McDaniels. He had his best season with the Patriots offensive coordinator, recording 57 receptions, 690 yards, and five touchdowns with the Raiders in 2022.
Plus, Hollins is already familiar with the AFC East, having spent last season with the Buffalo Bills. He finished the year with 31 receptions for 378 yards and five touchdowns.
Hollins joins a wide receiver room with Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker.
