PHILADELPHIA, PA - NOVEMBER 17: Dont'a Hightower #54 of the New England Patriots looks on against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 17, 2019 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)
While the New England Patriots losing a league-leading eight players to opt outs prior to the start of training camp last year played a huge role in their 2020 shortcomings, it almost served as a blessing in disguise, as it helped shed a damning light on their multitude of roster deficiencies.
It goes without saying that getting those players back — on top of making a few marquee additions via trades and free agency this offseason– will serve as a huge boost for their chances to get back into the playoffs next year.