In this series, I’ll be taking a deep dive into an NFL team situation as we turn to 2021. We will look at coaching/GM changes, team needs, salary cap/free agents, and overall fantasy outlook for 2021. The next team on the list: The New England Patriots
COACHING/GM CHANGES
The New England Patriots nearly fell off a cliff in 2020. With the departure of legendary quarterback Tom Brady and a large list of notable opt-outs. Despite these facts, Bill Belichick still turned in a 7-9 season. Impressive for a “rebuilding” year.
The only notable change to the staff so far has been the departure of Nick Caserio to Houston. Belichick is still the de facto GM. Josh McDaniels seems to be a top candidate to land another head coaching job this offseason, but nothing has been finalized as of today.
TEAM NEEDS
Front Seven
Don’t get it twisted, the Patriots need offensive players, but Bill wins with defense. The Patriots should return two top defenders in Dont’a Hightower and Patrick Chung. One of the areas the Patriots struggled was against the run, ranking 7th in the NFL in rushing yards given up. The Patriots also ranked #1 in the NFL in the number of defensive back snaps. Their base defense went from a traditional 3-4 scheme to a Dime look, having six defensive backs on the field for most of the defensive snaps.
Quarterback
Offensively, the Patriots were 31st in passing attempts, 30th in passing yards, and 31st in passing touchdowns. Cam Newton is a free agent in 2021 and should be looking for a new team. Not by his choice, however, the Patriots need to move on. The signing before the offseason was a mistake. I believe they could have accomplished a similar season starting Brian Hoyer or Jarrett Stidham. With the 15th overall pick in the 2021 draft, the Patriots aren’t exactly in a position to land a top QB prospect. Turning to the FA market in March would be the best way to find Cam Newton’s replacement.
Wide Receiver
This stat sums up the Patriot’s offense in 2020: The combined average QBR when targeting a “starting” wide receiver was 70.6. I included N’Keal Harry, Julian Edelman, Jakobi Meyers, and Damiere Byrd in this stat. I expect Edelman to retire, leaving a receiving core without a notable playmaker. Yes, you can make the case for certain guys to break out, but the wide receiver free agent class is excellent. Belichick needs to bring in a guy who can produce consistently for this offense.
SALARY CAP AND IMPENDING FREE AGENTS
With $50 million in cap space in 2021, New England has plenty of room to add to the roster. Getting back some opt-out players will take up some of that money, but there should be room to sign veteran offensive players.
Allen Robinson, WR
Allen Robinson is the type of receiver that Belichick would love on his roster. A guy who has played most of his career with below-average quarterbacks. New England should be bringing in a new QB this year, and pairing an extremely talented wideout would be ideal.
Hunter Henry, TE
Another talented receiving option to add to this offense, Hunter Henry is a solid red-zone threat that could help boost this lackluster passing attack. Remember, 31st in passing touchdowns. The tight ends on the roster right now combined for 18 receptions, 254 yards, and 1 touchdown.
Jacoby Brissett, QB
Philip Rivers is retiring, but Jacoby Brissett is a free agent in 2021. We could see Brissett go back to the place he spent much of his career. There is familiarity in New England, especially with Josh McDaniels. He could be the perfect bridge quarterback if the Patriots choose to bring in a rookie through the NFL draft.
2021 FANTASY OUTLOOK
The 2020 version of the New England Patriots was the direct result of the end of a dominant dynasty that lasted over 20 years. Going into 2021, I am hopeful the Patriots address their deficiencies on offense. A new offensive coordinator is likely if McDaniels leaves, but the formula Belichick uses to win should not change: run the football and play excellent defense.
For fantasy, we should still see a rotation at running back with Damien Harris and Sony Michel. The key will be if they can add a few weapons in the passing game. Adding a veteran quarterback could help stabilize this passing attack and provide some value for fantasy managers in 2021.
Thank you for reading! You can find the rest of my work at DFF and follow me on Twitter @FF_Derrick. Reach out to me anytime with anything fantasy football related! Seize the moment! Say less, do MORE!
Check out the other teams covered in this series: Jacksonville Jaguars & Atlanta Falcons
