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FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:
1. What’s next? Coach Bill Belichick’s strategy has been clear-cut through the first week of free agency, with the Patriots essentially swapping Mike Gesicki for Jonnu Smith at tight end, JuJu Smith-Schuster for Jakobi Meyers at receiver, working the mid-to-lower end of the market to build depth at offensive tackle, and retaining as many defenders as possible.
What moves might be next? What top areas of need remain?
The Patriots have a large void at safety following Devin McCourty’s retirement, which is why they were visiting with free agent Taylor Rapp (Los Angeles Rams) on Thursday.
Cornerback still ranks among their most vulnerable spots, following the release of starter Jalen Mills on Friday. It wouldn’t be a surprise if the Patriots invest a high draft choice at that spot (the team owns the 14th pick and has 11 overall selections) in a year that analysts predict a strong group of early-round prospects at the position.
Likewise at offensive tackle, where the Patriots could line up today if they had to play a game, but would benefit from an infusion of upside and/or youth.
Wide receiver, with a top four of Smith-Schuster, DeVante Parker, Tyquan Thornton and Kendrick Bourne, fits in that discussion as well.
Those look like the sweet spots, and nothing seems to move the needle as much as the quest for a top receiver, leading current Patriots linebacker Mack Wilson Sr. to hop on Twitter last week to recruit Denver Broncos pass-catcher Jerry Jeudy and Arizona Cardinals receiver DeAndre Hopkins. The team also had a scout at Odell Beckham Jr.’s recent workout.
What we doing @DeAndreHopkins ?
— Mack Wilson Sr. (@MackWilSr) March 16, 2023
Aye lil bro @jerryjeudy you’ll look good in that @Patriots blue, red & white!
— Mack Wilson Sr. (@MackWilSr) March 16, 2023
Belichick’s former assistant, Michael Lombardi, said on his “GM Shuffle” podcast that he believes…
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