The New England Patriots enter 2021 NFL free agency coming off a 7-9 season in 2020 and have 21 unrestricted free agents.
The Patriots have an abundance of salary-cap space in an offseason when many teams are feeling a crunch, which could be to their advantage. There is an opportunity for them to think big to fill glaring needs -- at quarterback, wide receiver, tight end and the defensive front seven.
Here's what to expect from the Patriots when the NFL offseason hits high gear with the start of free agency on March 17:
QUARTERBACK
Under contract: Jarrett Stidham, Jake Dolegala
UFA: Cam Newton, Brian Hoyer
Game plan: The past month has been devoted to exploring all options -- draft, free agency, trades -- in an offseason when 15 to 18 teams could emerge with new QBs.