6 Patriots Cap Casualty Cuts to Save Millions This Offseason

4. Adrian Phillips, S

Pre-June 1 Savings: $3 Million
Pre-June 1 Dead Money: $1.187 million
Post-June 1 Savings: $3 Million
Post-June 1 Dead Money: $1.187 million

Another long-term veteran, Adrian Phillips spent six seasons playing for the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers organization. He made the Pro Bowl for the Bolts in 2018 and by 2020, he hit the open market where he signed a two-year deal to join the Patriots.

Phillips started 16 games at strong safety and had 109 tackles (a career-high) and two interceptions. He continued to shine in 2021 with 92 tackles and a personal-best four interceptions. His performance led to a three-year extension which he signed ahead of the 2022 campaign.

Since signing the deal, he’s moved to a reserve role and had 66 tackles in 2022 and just 17 this past season. He also hasn’t recorded an interception since 2021 while recording no pass break-ups or tackles for a loss this year.

Phillips will turn 32 before the season begins and given his decline in playing time, it’s safe to assume he could be on the way out. If so, the Patriots would be hit with just over $1.1 million in dead space but would have another $3 million to spend.