The New England Patriots have the most cap space in the league this offseason, with more than $100 million that can be spent in NFL free agency.
While a few of the top NFL free agents have come off the board, there are reportedly still several high-end Patriots free agent targets who could be signed.
When the 2025 NFL offseason began, guard Trey Smith and wide receiver Tee Higgins were viewed as the top Patriots free agent targets.
With nearly $130 million in cap space, New England had the financial flexibility to get into a bidding war with anyone and come out on top.
However, Higgins and Smith are receiving the franchise tag from their respective teams.
According to Andrew Callahan and Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, the Patriots’ top targets in NFL free agency are offensive tackle Ronnie Stanley, cornerback Charvarius Ward, wide receiver Chris Godwin and defensive tackle Milton Williams.
Importantly, the Patriots front office doesn’t expect all of its top targets to hit the open market. New England thinks it’s “doubtful” that Godwin will sign with another team as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are reportedly adamant about re-signing him.
The Baltimore Ravens will also attempt to re-sign Stanley, but the Pro Bowl left tackle is likely to reach the open market.
With Smith staying in Kansas City, the free-agent market should be even stronger for Stanley as he would be the best offensive lineman available.
New England won’t have to be as worried about Williams re-signing with the Philadelphia Eagles.
While the club would love to keep him, the market for his services is expected to eclipse $20 million per season.
Coming off a breakout season – 10 QB hits, 7 tackles for loss and 5 sacks on a 48 percent snap rate – Williams will be in high demand as he heads into his age-26 campaign.
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Ward, a Pro Bowl cornerback with the San Francisco 49ers in 2023, struggled last season following the death of his 1-year-old daughter in October.
Ward has stated that the trauma his family experienced in California makes it highly unlikely he will return.
With each of the Patriots free agent targets, a position of need would be filled and it would provide the club with more flexibility in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Signing Stanley could mean passing on LSU Tigers offensive lineman Will Campbell in favor of edge rusher Abdul Carter or defensive tackle Mason Graham.
Likewise, signing Williams would allow New England to use the fourth overall pick on Campbell.
