The Patriots added CB Brandon Browner to team up with their other big free agent pickup: Darrelle Revis.
With plenty of cap space and an aching hunger to return to the Superbowl after narrowly missing it in 2014, the Patriots spent big on arguably the best defensive player available in free agency.
Players added:
Brandon Browner – CB, Patrick Chung – S, Brandon LaFell – WR, Darrelle Revis – CB, Will Smith – DE
A look at each player:
Brandon Browner was a starting CB for the Seahawks No. 1 defense in 2013. At 6’4″ the CB is easily the largest DB the team has and should start immediately.
Patrick Chung spent some time in Philadelphia after several years with the Patriots. He returns as a powerful defender in the defensive backfield who can cause interceptions and is a solid tackler.
Brandon LaFell is a slot receiver who caught 167 passes for over 2,000 yards in 4 seasons with the Panthers. He should be a backup for Aaron Dobson or Danny Amendola.
Darrelle Revis is arguably the best cover corner in the league. After a season ending knee injury in 2012, he returned with a vengeance in 2013 and returned to the Pro Bowl. The Patriots gave him a $14 million contract for his services in 2014 with an option to buy into his contract the following year.
Will Smith is a pass rushing defensive end with two season of 10 sacks or more. He made the Pro Bowl in 2006 and recorded 13 sacks in 2009. He missed the entire 2013 season due to injury but has otherwise been very durable in his 10-year career.
Grade: A-
Solid additions in free agency make one of their biggest weaknesses arguably its biggest strength. However, the lack of a playmaking receiver could hurt by the end of the year.
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