The [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) have plenty of positions to address during free agency: edge, wide receiver, offensive line, linebacker, tight end.
It’s not going to be easy to check all of those boxes, though...
If the club intends on putting itself in a position to regularly contend, it will have to put together another near-flawless offseason -- which could include targeting the teammate of Maxx Crosby, Las Vegas Raiders linebacker Malcolm Koonce.
Let's take a look!
Bio:
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**Malcolm Koonce**
_**Position:** EDGE
**Height:** 6’ 3"
**Weight:** 243lbs
**2026 Age:** 28 (June 6, 1998)
**2025:** 17 G, 4.5 SACKS, 13 QB HITS, 6 TFL_
The Patriots should sign Malcolm Koonce because:
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It's going to take more than one...
The Patriots are thin at the position, as the only proven veteran still under contract is dealing with perpetual knee issues (Harold Landry III), their best option is about to enter free agency (K'Lavon Chaisson), they've routinely been predicted to release the longest-tenured player in that position group (Anfernee Jennings) and they can't rely on increased production from the two youngsters (Elijah Ponder and Bradyn Swinson).
Koonce isn't exactly the most prolific option, but in an offseason where it will take more than one addition to successfully fix their issues at the position, you'd have to imagine the organization is looking into buy-low options who could grow into more than just situational pass-rushers.
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The Patriots should not sign Malcolm Koonce because:
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I would imagine that means they whiffed on other options...
Koonce's production has been rather inconsistent, as he has full season sack totals of 0.0, 8.0, and 4.5. It's a relatively good offseason to need help on the edge, as there are plenty of other affordable options who can help affect the opposing quarterback more consistently -- Al-Quadin Muhammad, Odafe Oweh, Boye Mafe, Arnold Ebiketie, Joseph Ossai.
Best Fits:
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_1\. New Orleans Saints2. New England Patriots_
_3\. Carolina Panthers_
Koonce is going to pick the organization who gives him the best opportunity to play, so this one won't come down to cap space or team success. If they can promise him an opportunity to earn reps on passing downs, the Patriots will be in good position to land the veteran.
**_More NFL: [Patriots Offseason Preview: Everything Team Must Address In 2026](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots/news/patriots-offseason-preview-everything-team-must-address-2026/aaf2d2af915aac61a95dded5)_**