2012 NFL Free Agents: 5 Players New England Patriots Must Consider

February 12, 2012   ·   Amelia Ahlgren   ·   Jump to comments

With the Super Bowl loss behind them and the 2012 season on the horizon, the New England Patriots have shifted their focus to free agency.
Without question, the Pats need most help on defense.
Boasting the 31st-ranked squad for total defense in the 2011 NFL season, the Patriots desperately need to plug up their porous secondary and strengthen their weak pass rush.
Surprisingly, the Pats could also use some additions on offense.
Despite the illusion created by the Patriots' two phenomenal tight ends, New England's depth at the wide receiver slot is lacking. Their star is Wes Welker, who they lean on heavily, but beyond that talent is sparse.
Deion Branch did his part this season, but he is older and slowing down.
Chad Ochocinco, who signed a three-year, $11.5 million contract with the Patriots last August, is likely to get cut loose in the coming year after amassing just 15 catches all season.
Julian Edelman saw fewer snaps on offense this season ...

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