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3 intriguing linebackers Patriots should target in 2023 NFL Free Agency

By Tarringo Basile-vaughan

ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 30: Leighton Vander Esch #55 of the Dallas Cowboys warms up against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium on October 30, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images)
ARLINGTON, TX - OCTOBER 30: Leighton Vander Esch #55 of the Dallas Cowboys warms up against the Chicago Bears at AT&T Stadium on October 30, 2022 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Cooper Neill/Getty Images) /
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Although linebacker Matthew Judon and Josh Uche combined for 27 sacks in 2022, the New England Patriots could still use an upgrade at a position they didn’t address like many felt they should’ve going into the 2022 NFL season.

In trying to get faster and more versatile at the position, Bill Belichick traded for Mack Wilson, inserted both Raekwon McMillian and Jahlani Tavai into larger roles and relied on Ja’Whaun Bentley as the anchor.  Overall, it wasn’t a bad group but adding another big play linebacker would make the Patriots’ defense in 2023 even more formidable.

With the No. 14 pick overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, Belichick would have a chance to select a playmaker early in the draft if the team decided to go defensive in the first round.  Or he can make a splash in free agency with the team’s projected $34 million in cap space.

New England Patriots, Bill Belichick won’t be afraid to spend

Knowing Belichick, he will draft a couple of linebackers in the draft. But no one should be surprised if he spends money at a position, he has historically spent money on.  Along with the splash he made signing Judon, Belichick also splurged on top linebacker talent like Roosevelt Colvin and Adalius Thomas.

Okay, Thomas didn’t exactly work out, but you know what I mean here.  If Belichick sees a player who he feels will fit and impact his defense, he opens the checkbook.  With former Patriots linebacker and assistant coach Jerod Mayo by his side, the team should be able to lore another big play linebacker in free agency.

With a players like Lavonte David headlining the free agent class at the linebacker position, here are 3 intriguing options for the New England Patriots to target in 2023 NFL Free Agency.

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