An NFL-high eight New England Patriots became opt-outs prior to the start of the 2020 season.
Running back Brandon Bolden, fullback Danny Vitale, wide receiver Marqise Lee, tight end Matt LaCosse, tackle Marcus Cannon and interior lineman Najee Toran were the names on the offensive side of the ball. And on the defensive side, linebacker Dont’a Hightower and safety Patrick Chung made the same decision amid Covid-19 concerns.
But Patriots captain Devin McCourty believes their availability is trending in the right direction for 2021.
“From my understanding, they’ll all be back,” the 33-year-old safety told Tom E.