Patriots gridiron news: Yes, Bill Belichick should go get Aqib Talib

The Denver Broncos are actively shopping cornerback Aqib Talib and the New England Patriots should strongly consider going after him.

The New England Patriots didn’t show Aqib Talib the money back in 2014, but they could make amends for that in 2018.

According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport on Wednesday, the Denver Broncos are looking to reload their roster by freeing up some cap space.  Talib is one of the prime candidates John Elway is looking to either trade or release.

"“Aqib Talib’s roster spot is certainly one that is in jeopardy,” Rapopport said.  “I would not be surprised if the Broncos had some talks about potentially trading him this week. …He’s got a big contract, but he’s still a very, very good player, and teams know that.”"

Setting the contract aside for a minute, Aqib Talib has been one of the top cornerbacks the last few seasons.  Since joining the Broncos back in 2014, he has 11 interceptions and 50 pass breakups.  Most importantly, he has stayed pretty healthy during that stretch.

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When the Patriots decided to move on from him and go after Darrelle Revis, one knock against the 32-year old cornerback was his durability.  But, since leaving, he has proved he could stay on the field.  The only other question mark would be Talib’s on-the-field and off-the-field antics.  The team has dealt with that before, so they shouldn’t have an issue keeping Talib in line a second time around.

Hey, it worked with former teammate LeGarrette Blount.

About the money 

This dream scenario would only make sense money wise if the Broncos simply released Aqib Talib.

With the Patriot other needs heading into free agency and the large contract of Stephon Gilmore, the team is unlikely to take on the salary via trade.  The team would have a shot at Talib through free agency.  Even with that, they may have to outbid teams like the Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys and Washington Redskins for his services.

Related Story: Dreaming of an Aqib Talib reunion

The advantage for the Patriots would be that they are a team Aqib Talib is familiar with and a place he knows he could go in win.  He also shares a mutual admiration for Bill Belichick.  If he saved him and put him in a good spot before, he can do it again.

While a Stephon Gilmore-Talib tandem is dream worthy, the outspoken cornerback does appear ready for a move.

Take a look at this tweet:

https://twitter.com/AqibTalib21/status/968975610256285696

John Gruden envious of the Patriots

With all the hits “The Patriots Way” has taken over the last few weeks, it is good to hear something positive.

Speaking at the NFL Combine on Wednesday, new Oakland Raiders head coach John Gruden took some time to marvel at what the New England Patriots have been able to accomplish over the past two decades.

"“I’m envious of the Patriots,” Gruden said when asked what he learned from the Patriots.  “The Patriots way – finding players who are versatile and find ways to win games.  The way they can morph themselves into a two-back or a five-wide receiver team with no backs depending on the situation.  It’s a pleasure to watch them adapt to new rules every week and every year and continue to excel.”"

Next: New England Patriots rumors: Preston Brown is exactly what team needs

It seems this offseason and upcoming season will be quite the challenge for the Patriots to maintain that excellence.  But, if any team can stay above water and continue to compete, it is a team led by the greatest coach in NFL history.