Coming off their crushing Super Bowl LX loss, the New England Patriots certainly have the resources to be competitive in the AFC once again in 2026. With nearly $42 million in cap space to work with, the Patriots will be major players once free agency opens.
Protection will certainly be at the forefront of free agent conversations, as Drake Maye was under constant duress during the Super Bowl. It didn’t help that rookie Will Campbell allowed 14 pressures on the night, but New England needs to sure up their protection across the board regardless.
They’ll also need some new weapons. Stefon Diggs had a 1,000-yard campaign in 2025, but will be 33 years old and could begin to decline. After Diggs, Hunter Henry was next in receiving with 768 yards and seven touchdowns. While they won’t be strapped for cash, Henry could become a cap casualty, as the Patriots will save $9.25 million by releasing him.
More New England Patriots Content From TWSN
Travis Kelce Leaving the Chiefs to Sign With the New England Patriots
2026 New England Patriots Updated NFL Mock Draft: Post Super Bowl
Patriots Acquire Brandon Aiyuk From 49ers in Major NFL Trade Scenario
New England Patriots Predicted to Sign Kyle Pitts
If they want to make a splash, Greg Auman predicted that New England will sign Kyle Pitts in free agency.
“Pitts, 25, stepped up in a contract year with 88 catches for 928 yards and five touchdowns — his touchdown total has increased every year — 1-2-3-4-5 in five seasons,” Auman wrote. “Was that success more telling of Atlanta’s absence of any real receiving depth? He’ll be the top tight end available, which should get him $12–14 million a year, though the Falcons could hedge their bet and give him the franchise tag, which is $16 million for one season.”
Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has experience utilizing some of the best tight ends in the game in the past. Even if they don’t cut Henry, adding Pitts and creating a lethal tight end duo would be electric in Foxboro.
New England deploying more 12 personnel could prove beneficial as well. Pitts’ market value is set at $10.8 million, with a projected deal of four years, $43,322,828. If New England deems him worthy, adding Kyle Pitts to their offense could benefit all parties.
Related
Subscribe to the TWSN Newsletter for original reporting, bold opinions, and real analysis across NFL, NBA, UFC, College Football, and more.
Straight to your inbox. Always authentic.
Sign up now and never miss a moment.