New England Patriots rumors: 3 Chiefs to target in 2022 NFL free agency

Why the New England Patriots should target cornerback  Charvarius Ward

The New England Patriots could solve their cornerback depth this offseason by simply locking up J.C. Jackson to a long-term deal.

If they don’t and some other team gives him an offer he can’t refuse, suddenly Bill Belichick would have to focus his efforts on revamping a secondary that was the team’s strength in 2021, even with trading away Stephon Gilmore in the early part of the season.

A young cornerback on the market they could look at is Chiefs’ cornerback Charvarius Ward, another former undrafted free agent who has established himself as a starter in the league.

Not as flashy as Jackson as far as defensive playmaking goes, Ward is similar in size and possesses an athleticism that Belichick could work with.  At just 25 years old, there is obvious upside, but can Ward find consistency playing in New England?

With only Jonathan Jones, Myles Bryant, Jalen Mills and Shaun Wade under contract, the Patriots backup plan if Jackson goes elsewhere would be to target cheaper cornerbacks with experience and upside.  That is where a player like Ward comes in.

In establishing himself in the league and playing on a Super Bowl contender, Ward can replace some of what Jackson does, although his ceiling may be that of a solid No. 2 corner.  Belichick has gotten through seasons with a lot less, so if Jackson isn’t signed to a long term deal or the team lays the franchise tag on him, Ward is a player to watch in free agency.