Patriots might already be eliminated from signing big-time free agent next offseason

"With the 2025 NFL trade deadline long past, there has been an increased interest in what the New England Patriots might do during free agency next offseason, especially since they are already projected to have the most cap space to spend (again). Looking at the massive improvements they made to the roster this year, expectations are high, and fans hope they'll add even more firepower to the offense for Drake Maye."

"Because he has been on an absolute roll this season in Dallas, already recording 58 receptions for 908 yards and seven touchdowns in 10 games, it's beyond clear that Pickens will be the top name for receiver-needy teams to pursue during free agency next spring. Although the Patriots might not be at the top of that list, they'll certainly be looking into their options, including at receiver, and Pickens would likely be among the list of names."

"And while that's certainly good news for Pickens, who will surely be in for a hefty payday, it's not great news for the Patriots, if they were even remotely interested in inquiring about signing him next year. The Patriots might already eliminate George Pickens from their free agency list months before the season ends Because he has been on an absolute roll this season in Dallas, already recording 58 receptions for 908 yards and seven touchdowns in 10 games,"

The New England Patriots enter the 2025 offseason projected to have the most salary-cap space and significant roster improvements this season. Fan expectations center on adding more explosive wide receiver talent to support quarterback Drake Maye. George Pickens has rapidly increased his value after moving to Dallas, recording 58 receptions for 908 yards and seven touchdowns in 10 games, and projects to be a top free-agent receiver. The Patriots could afford his newly projected salary but may deprioritize him because other roster positions will require more urgent upgrades. Pickens may therefore be crossed off their free-agent target list before free agency begins.

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