The [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) underwent a head-to-toe rebuild last offseason. After a Super Bowl berth, fans might have expected this spring to be less hectic, but a new report implies that might not be the case.
The team is currently engaged in serious contract negotiations with the star of the defense, Christian Gonzalez. But after that deal gets done, Andrew Callahan of the [Boston Herald believes all other players](https://www.bostonherald.com/2026/02/28/stefon-diggs-a-j-brown-and-free-agent-targets-inside-the-patriots-plans-at-the-nfl-scouting-combine/) are on the table, besides one, of course.
“Christian Gonzalez’s contract extension remains only a matter of time, per sources,” Callahan wrote. “One front-office member suggested Gonzalez and Drake Maye are the only truly safe players on the Patriots’ roster, underscoring the team’s desire to keep the star cornerback. The timing of Gonzalez’s deal will depend on the team’s other transactions and outgoing cash flow, including money owed to free agents they signed last year."
New England has nearly $40 million to spend in free agency and only four real contracts to renew: veteran tight end Austin Hooper, fan-favorite defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga, young safety Jaylinn Hawkins and breakout star K’Lavon Chaisson.
I expect three of these four to be back next season. But if the price is too high, I don’t expect Vrabel to play ball with them.
The Patriots need starters, not depth pieces, next season. This report all but confirms that New England will once again have a new look in 2026.