The quietest time of the NFL offseason is coming to a close. Training camp is just a few days away. There is no doubt Bill Belichick and company are hard at work evaluating ways to improve the roster.
Each summer, a number of talented players don’t make the roster due to the immense talent across the team. Here are a few Patriots who could see themselves playing for another team next season.
1. Jonathan Jones, CB
Jones is a talented slot cornerback who brings versatility with his contributions on special teams
And yet Jones makes sense as a potential trade candidate because of the number of other talented players at the position. It is easy to forget about former second round pick, Duke Dawson, who ended last season on a rough note after returning from injury. Dawson showed a lot of potential in college but issues with his hamstring forced him to the IR.
Considering Jones is playing on a one year deal, the team may find it in its best interest to trade him now to recoup some compensation. If Dawson can impress enough in camp, he might give Belichick the confidence to deal Jones.,
2. Elandon Roberts, LB
Similarly to Jones, Roberts is a talented player at a position of great depth on the team. Jamie Collins returns to the fold after a stint in Cleveland and Ja’Whaun Bentley will be another piece rebounding after injury last season. They will be playing at the same position as standouts Dont’a Hightower and Kyle Van Noy.
Roberts took a huge leap forward in 2019 to improve his overall awareness, making fewer mental gaffes and causing fewer lapses in coverage. The Patriots may find it worthwhile to trade Roberts to a team in need of a solid linebacker.
3. Rex Burkhead, RB
Burkhead was an important member of the running back corps last season, but the group got even stronger this year with the drafting of Damien Harris out of Alabama.
The team certainly values Burkhead’s contributions in the run and passing game, but his skillset may overlap with a lot of the things Harris can do. On top of that, Burkhead has struggled to stay healthy during his tenure with the team. With so many versatile backs in New England, perhaps another NFL team will take interest in trading for Burkhead and giving him a more featured role.
