New England Patriots: 5 Positions Where an Upgrade is Still Needed
2. Cornerback
The New England Patriots and their fans need to prepare for a future without Malcolm Butler. The New Orleans Saints are interested, but they’d need to give the Patriots their 11th overall pick this year to get him. It’s possible but unlikely. Even if Butler plays in New England in 2017, he’s probably gone next year. He seems to want out and the Patriots have given Stephon Gilmore #1 corner money. A Patriots defense without Butler is coming soon.
Free Agents
- Nickell Robey-Coleman
- Brandon Flowers
- Sterling Moore
- Darrelle Revis
There are still a few options in free agency that the Patriots could consider. Nickell Robey-Coleman could reunite with former Buffalo Bills teammate Gilmore in New England. Brandon Flowers and Sterling Moore are also available.
Of course, Darrelle Revis has also been linked to New England. Some think he could come back for another shot at a ring. Things aren’t that simple, though. Revis is set to make $6 million from the New York Jets in 2017, whether he plays or not. So he likely won’t take less than $6 million from any time, even the Patriots. I don’t see the Patriots paying him that much at this point in his career.
NFL Draft Targets
- Teez Tabor, Florida
- Cameron Sutton, Tennessee
- Damontae Kazee, San Diego State
- Shaquill Griffin, Central Florida
The Patriots offense is set so defense will likely be the focus for the draft. They could jump at the talent of Tabor or Sutton in the second or third rounds, or they could wait for a project player like Kazee or Griffin.
Personally, I think that Shaquill Griffin from UCF will be in a Patriots uniform next season, competing for playing time with Eric Rowe, Cyrus Jones, and Justin Coleman.