The Patriots did a great job of [retooling](https://chowderandchampions.com/patriots-draft-signals-perfect-collaboration-between-eliot-wolf-mike-vrabel-01jt6v130adq). They added to every level of the defense in free agency, used the fourth overall pick to draft the top tackle in Will Campbell, and added quality veterans to both sides of the ball to help change the culture in New England.
With minicamp starting up across the league, this is the time for coaches to evaluate their rosters to find potential weak points on the team and attempt to fix them before the start of the season. It’s also a time for teams to add depth to positions that might not have many players in them.
It’s fair for teams not to know what they’ll need just yet. Although there’s still time for teams to add free agents, time is important, and camaraderie is built in the offseason and during minicamps and training camps.
That said, here are three former Patriots who are still available as free agents and could be signed by the time the season starts.
Stephon Gilmore, CB
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In 2024, Gilmore signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings. He played and started in 15 games, making 56 tackles, nine pass deflections, and one interception.
Gilmore has finished with 55+ tackles over the last three seasons while playing for three different teams, which have all been career-highs for the 14-year pro.
The 2019 Defensive Player of the Year is looking for his fourth team in as many years. Gilmore still has another year left in the tank at 35 years old to offer a team.
Jalen Mills, S
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Jalen Mills has had a down career since leaving the Patriots after the 2023 season. He signed with the New York Giants and was then released before the season due to being placed on the NFI list for a calf injury that forced him to miss training camp.
Mills was quickly picked up by the neighboring New York Jets to their practice squad, and then he was eventually called up in Week 8. In nine games, he made eight starts, totaling 44 tackles, six pass deflections, and one interception.
In Week 15, Mills suffered a broken collarbone and was placed on injured reserve, ending his season.
Mills is still available for a team interested in adding a veteran safety.
Jack Jones, CB
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After getting off to a great start to his career, Jack Jones had a rough final year in New England with off-the-field issues. He only played in five games in 2023, dealing with an injury to start the season and then missing a team curfew. Everything added up to New England releasing him in the middle of the season.
Last season, he started in 16 of 17 games, making 69 tackles and 16 pass deflections with three interceptions.
Jones is in the prime of his career and still has a lot to offer a team.
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