Top 3 reasons why New England Patriots had the best NFL offseason

No. 2: The New England Patriots opt outs returning very important

The New England Patriots traded right tackle Marcus Cannon this offseason and Patrick Chung retired, but the return of Dont’a Hightower, who opted out of the 2020 NFL season due to COVID-19 is as big as an addition as they get.

The veteran will bring leadership to the second level of the defense, which will allow young linebackers like Ja’Whuan Bentley, Chase Winovich, Anfernee Jennings and Josh Uche make contributions without the pressure they had on them in 2020.

Along with all the other defensive additions via free agency, Hightower’s return helps in two areas.  He will improve the team against the run and his ability to get to the passer in key moments will help the team get off the field during key moments of the game.

Another veteran returning that no one is really talking about is veteran fullback Dan Vitale who has the ability to catch the ball out of the backfield.

Jakob Johnson has really made the position his following the retirement of James Develin, but Vitale, along with TE/FB Dalton Keene, should provide some healthy competition there.

Other key players returning following the opt out are tight end Matt LaCosse and running back Brandon Bolden.

Bolden has been a key contributor in special teams, but LaCosse appears to be the odd man out considering who they acquired in free agency and 2020 rookies Keene and Devin Asiasi looking to make that next step.

Again, more depth and competition added to a roster that needed an up-haul on both sides of the ball.