One of the biggest criticisms surrounding the New England Patriots organization has been their lack of spending in free agency. Typically, the Patriots have been content to just dip their toe in the water, while other teams are willing to make big splashes to come away with top talent.
Take last year for example. The Patriots were competitive in an attempt to sign five-time Pro Bowl wideout DeAndre Hopkins, but then they allowed themselves to get outbid by the Tennessee Titans, despite receiver clearly being one of the biggest needs on their roster.