These Potential Patriots Targets Showed Out During Eagles’ Super Bowl Win
It’s been confirmed: The Patriots should have their eyes on at least three Eagles defenders set to hit the open market.
Prior to Philadelphia’s dominant win in Super Bowl LIX, we highlighted a handful of impending free agents who would make sense for New England. The defensive showcase in New Orleans confirmed they would be impactful contributors on Mike Vrabel’s defense.
The Patriots would be wise to target Josh Sweat, Milton Williams and Zack Baun.
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Josh Sweat, DE
There was a real case somebody on Philadelphia’s defense should’ve won Super Bowl MVP, which ultimately went to quarterback Jalen Hurts. Sweat was arguably more deserving. The seven-year veteran generated a team-high six pressures on 34 pass-rush opportunities, per Next Gen Stats. He recorded a career-high 2 1/2 sacks on Patrick Mahomes and completely dominated the Chiefs up front. The Patriots sorely need pass-rush help. Sweat’s performance on the biggest stage earned him a significant payday, but New England has the funds.
Milton Williams, DT
Williams was viewed as one of the top defensive tackles set to hit the open market, but his performance at Caesars Superdome might make him one of the top players. Period. Williams, who had a career-high five sacks during the regular season, added another two on Mahomes. He also forced and recovered a Mahomes fumble in the fourth quarter, one of three Kansas City turnovers. He’s an explosive defensive tackle who is still just 25 years old and would give the Patriots a young and talented defensive line with Christian Barmore and Keion White.
Zack Baun, LB
Perhaps nobody earned themselves a bigger offseason contract than Baun. The veteran linebacker, who played out a one-year, $3.5 million deal, was a First Team All-Pro and finalist for Defensive Player of the Year. He then recorded four postseason turnovers with two interceptions (NFC Wild Card Game, Super Bowl) and two fumble recoveries (divisional round, conference championship). His game-altering interception on Mahomes ultimately helped the Eagles take a 24-0 lead late in the first half. Baun could serve as one of two off-ball linebackers in Vrabel’s defense.
New England enters the offseason with the most cap space in the league while Philadelphia has other impactful players in the front seven, which likely means it will move forward without all three.