Similar to 2021, the Patriots have a significant amount of cap space. New England has the resources to change their offensive approach. The Patriots are projected to have the seventh-most cap space of all NFL teams. The Patriots could create an additional $20M of cap space. Below I highlight the four most significant moves Bill Belichick can make to increase the Patriots’ cap space.
Cut Jonnu Smith – $3.8M
The former third-round draft pick is entering the third year of his four-year contract. During the 2022 season he had a $10M salary and could earn up to $6.4M in bonus money. Unfortunately, Jonnu Smith hasn’t found his footing in Foxboro, and time is quickly running out. New England could trade, release, or extend Smith, which has a positive gain for the Patriots. However, a release before June 2 will negatively impact the cap. New England would have to use one of their two June 2 designations on Smith. If Belichick decides to trade Smith, it will create $3.6M, while releasing Smith will create $3.8M.
The Patriots signed Bill O’Brien to the offensive coordinator position. The former Patriots offensive coordinator has experience working with two tight ends. In 2010 and 2011, O’Brien used Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez. During those two seasons, the pair combined for 266 receptions, 3,346 yards, and 40 touchdowns.
Extend Hunter Henry – $6.8M
Now it’s time to talk about the other tight end on the roster – Hunter Henry. Henry has been more productive than Smith but failed to build on his 2021 success. However, he is a reliable veteran that the Patriots should keep in Foxboro. New England could save $10.5M by extending the 28-year-old. Henry’s contract expires after the 2023 season. Henry caught a career-high nine touchdowns in 2021 and had notable chemistry with quarterback Mac Jones. However, his playmaking ability decreased when Joe Judge and Matt Patricia led the offensive coaching staff. However, Henry’s value should increase with Bill O’Brien taking over the offense.
Restructure Matthew Judon – $5.0M
Linebacker Matthew Judon is arguably the best player on the Patriots roster, and the Pro Bowler can help his team by restricting his contract. The Patriots could convert Judon’s signing bonus into a guaranteed salary to free up over $5M in cap space. Last offseason, the edge rusher tried recruiting NFL free agents to Foxboro. However, Judon has shown he is more than willing to put the team first. For example, Judon restructured part of his contract in December when the Patriots were tight on money.
Trade Trent Brown – $10.2M
After underperforming during the 2022 season, the Patriots may look to move on from veteran Trent Brown. New England could target a tackle in the draft or free agency. Brown will cost the Patriots $12.25M next season. If the Patriots choose to move on from the tackle, they can free up over $10M in cap space. Bill Belichick and the Patriots hired a new offensive line coach, Adrian Klemm, who could work with Brown if the Patriots resigned him.
Will the Patriots have a similar offseason to 2021 and spend big? Let me know in the comments.
My name is Ben Belford-Peltzman and I am the creator and writer of The Patriots Beat. I am a 17-year kid who is an optimistic pessimist about the City of Champions. I started The Patriots Beat in August of 2022 and never expected to grow so much but here we are. Feel free to email Thepatriotsbeat@gmail.com with any inquires.
