The New England Patriots entered the offseason with a clear need at wide receiver. While they were linked to several big-name pass catchers available, Mack Hollins was the only piece that they added to their wide receiver room.
Tom E. Curran of NBC Sports Boston recently revealed that New England was worried about the potential negative impact a veteran wideout could have on Drake Maye. The Patriots insider shared that the organization wasn't in on two former All-Pros, writing:
The Patriots were exceedingly wary of the negative impact a demanding veteran wideout could have on Maye. As a result, they weren't in the game on talented guys like DK Metcalf and Davante Adams. The guy they loved – Chris Godwin – signed back with the Buccaneers, per Tom E. Curran of NBC Sports Boston
Both Metcalf and Adams switched teams in the offseason despite having strong 2024 seasons. Surprisingly, the Patriots did not have an interest in either player.
Their offense struggled tremendously as they received minimal production in the passing game. New England ranked 30th in scoring offense, 31st in total yards, 31st in passing touchdowns, and 32nd in passing yards.
The Patriots will likely turn to the 2025 NFL Draft to look to help Maye. They hold the fourth overall pick and have a total of nine picks.
New England largely addressed their defensive needs in free agency and appears likely to focus on improving the offense around Maye in the draft. The third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft threw for 2,276 yards, 15 touchdowns, and ten interceptions as a rookie. He completed 66.6% of his pass attempts while adding 421 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 54 carries.
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This story was originally published March 19, 2025 at 8:00 AM.