New England Patriots Roster Cuts: What's at Stake

As the New England Patriots continue to shape their roster ahead of the new season, one player who will be closely watched is guard/tackle Michael Onwenu. The three-year contract extension Onwenu signed recently means he'll hit free agency again before his 30th birthday, which could lead to a hefty price tag for the team to retain him in the future.

Despite this risk, the signing represents what the Patriots hope to achieve under their new leadership, comprising head coach Jerod Mayo and director of scouting Eliot Wolf. The organization aims to draft, develop, and re-sign its own players, with Onwenu being a prime example of this approach. Alongside Onwenu, Sidy Sow (guard) and David Andrews (center), the Patriots now have three 2024 starters locked in.

Onwenu's versatility is one of his greatest assets, as he can play both guard and right tackle. Mayo has praised Onwenu's abilities, stating that 'when he is going, he is dominant.' With this signing, the Patriots have made a significant commitment to their offensive line, which will be crucial for the team's success in the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, quarterback Jarrett Brissett has also re-signed with the Patriots on a one-year, $8 million deal with a maximum value of $12 million. This move represents a veteran bridge option should the team draft a new quarterback and decide not to play them immediately. Brissett's background working with first-year offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt adds an extra layer of familiarity and comfort for the player.

As the Patriots look ahead to their upcoming season, they will be relying heavily on these key signings to make a positive impact. With free agency now open, we can expect more moves from the team in the coming days and weeks.

New england patriots roster cuts