One of the goals that the New England Patriots had coming into the 2023 offseason was to upgrade the weapons around quarterback Mac Jones. After a strong rookie season, the 2021 first-round pick took a step back in Year 2.
Part of that was self-inflicted as Jones struggled with ball security. But, the root of the issue was likely his supporting cast, from the coaching staff to the player personnel. Bill O’Brien taking over as offensive coordinator, replacing Matt Patricia and Joe Judge, is a massive upgrade that cannot be understated.
Personnel-wise, the Patriots also made some changes in the offseason. Tight end Jonnu Smith was traded to the Atlanta Falcons and replaced by Mike Gesicki, who signed as a free agent. Wide receiver Jakobi Meyers left for the Las Vegas Raiders but the Patriots signed JuJu Smith-Schuster to take his spot.
Both players will certainly help New England’s passing game, but the team shouldn’t be done making additions. It wouldn’t hurt to add another playmaker to the group, which is what Field Yates of ESPN believes is the one move the Patriots still have to make this offseason.
The player that Yates believes that they should target? Free agent wide receiver, DeAndre Hopkins. Hopkins was released by the Arizona Cardinals about a month ago and recently visited with the Patriots. No deal was reached during that meeting, but Yates believes they need to push to get something done.
“The Patriots have already hosted the five-time All-Pro on a free agent visit, so we’ve established that the interest is real. The team also has a need for a top wide receiver. Coach Bill Belichick’s affinity for Hopkins is no secret, and Hopkins reached his greatest heights as a player under offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien during their tenure together in Houston. With news that Hopkins and O’Brien have mended their previously frosty relationship, the match is simply too good to ignore. The Patriots have the financial flexibility to make Hopkins a legitimate offer.”
There is a lot to like about the Patriots from Hopkins’ perspective. Most teams that are pursuing him can offer him a huge role in their offense or a significant contract offer; not many can provide both like New England can.
Adding Hopkins to the mix would provide Jones with a legitimate No. 1 receiver to target. Smith-Schuster could settle into a No. 2 role he has shown to be more comfortable in with Tyquan Thornton, Kendrick Bourne and DeVante Parker falling into place behind them.
A fringe playoff team, adding a player the caliber of Hopkins could help push the Patriots to that next level. It would also provide them a better chance of keeping up with the high-octane offenses the rest of their AFC East foes are projected to have.
