The New England Patriots are entering the 2021 season with much optimism, amidst some questions. After a disappointing 7-9 finish in 2020, a season in which they missed the playoffs for the first time since 2008, New England entered the offseason with a clear goal of making significant improvements.
In an approach, uncharacteristic to the franchise under head coach Bill Belichick, the Patriots spent big in free agency. Marquee additions such as tight ends Jonnu Smith, Hunter Henry, wide receivers Nelson Agholor, Kendrick Bourne and linebacker Matthew Judon headlined one of the most impressive free-agent classes in the NFL.