New England Patriots: 5 uniquely bold predictions for 2021 NFL offseason

MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: Mac Jones #10 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts to a touchdown during the second quarter of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA - JANUARY 11: Mac Jones #10 of the Alabama Crimson Tide reacts to a touchdown during the second quarter of the College Football Playoff National Championship game against the Ohio State Buckeyes at Hard Rock Stadium on January 11, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots
New England Patriots Joe Thuney. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports. /

New England Patriots actually re-sign Joe Thuney

The New England Patriots will actually re-sign Joe Thuney to a long-term deal.

It will be a deal that will shock fans and the NFL as the offensive guard seems like he will be too expensive for the Patriots to retain.

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But, as one of the players who holds that offensive line together, paying both center David Andrews and Thuney will be a priority for the Patriots who will be able to do so by trading guard Shaq Mason.

In a bold trade move, Bill Belichick will move Mason in order to pay Thuney.  It may involve another player or a draft pick, but Mason will be easier to replace than Thuney would be.

With the emergence of Michael Onewu and players like Justin Herron and 2020 opt-out Najee Toran vying for playing time at the guard positions, the Patriots should have enough versatility along that offensive line to fill the hole that would be left if they trade Mason.

Even if right tackle Marcus Cannon retires, the Patriots also have 2019 third-round pick Yodny Cajuste waiting to make a contribution.  While the quarterback and skill positions will be a focus this offseason, Belichick will make sure his O-line is intact by shelling out the dough for Joe Thuney.