Malcolm Koonce is another potential option entering free agency. He played under current Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels with the Raiders. Koonce was expected to have a breakout role in 2024 but suffered a season-ending knee injury in practice before the season began.

The New England Patriots have been very busy just ahead of NFL free agency opening up. On Sunday night, the Patriots were able to lock up free agent pass rusher Harold Landry to a big three-year, $43.5 million contract. It was a nice step in the right direction for New England, but the front office wasn't done there.

1. Ranking needs: The NFL's legal negotiating period for free agency begins Monday at noon ET, giving the Patriots an opportunity to begin filling critical needs across a roster badly in need of a boost.