Patriots' 10-biggest post-free agency salary cap hits
Here are the 10-biggest salary cap hits currently for the Patriots ahead of the 2026 season.
The New England Patriots didn't make as big of a free agency splash in 2026, but they made enough waves to continue adding to the strong foundation they built last year. They added to specific areas of need, while upgrading in some areas, through responsible spending. None of the free agents signed so far in the offseason are among the top-10 highest salary cap hits for the team in 2026.
That's good news for a team eyeing future contract extensions for star cornerback Christian Gonzalez and franchise quarterback Drake Maye. They are going to do whatever they need to do to improve the roster, while also preserving money for the future. The team currently has a projected $35.
2 million in available cap space, according to Over The Cap . They could make other moves, including possibly trading for Philadelphia Eagles three-time All-Pro wide receiver A. J.
Brown . However, the expectation now is for the team to shift its focus to improving by selecting the right players in the 2026 NFL Draft. Finding and developing young talent is at the heart of every perennial Super Bowl contender.