Free agent updates prove the Patriots didn’t make many mistakes this offseason

Musket Fire's Graham Wilker evaluates the New England Patriots' offseason departures through the first three weeks of the 2026 NFL season. While noting that the front office avoided major blunders, Wilker argues that the team should experience varying levels of regret regarding several released, traded, or unsigned players after a 1-2 start.

The analysis identifies linebacker Jack Gibbens and nose tackle Khyiris Tonga as the departures New England likely misses most due to defensive front injuries. In contrast, departures such as Austin Hooper and Garrett Bradbury represent minimal regret, while depth losses at edge rusher, safety, and wide receiver have been magnified by recent injuries.