As the Patriots set their financial parameters for a crucial offseason, they’ll keep one eye on the 2018 season and another on 2019.
The Patriots currently set up with a projected $14 million in cap space, so long as the 2018 salary cap hits $178 million. That doesn’t leave much flexibility, especially in comparison to the $65 million allotted toward their 2017 frenzy.
However, the Pats have some easy ways to create another $25 million in spending money. They’ll need that cap space for two reasons or, perhaps, two seasons.
Aside from cornerback Malcolm Butler’s expected departure, the Patriots’ free agents are highlighted by left tackle Nate Solder, running backs Dion Lewis and Rex Burkhead, slot receiver Danny Amendola, special teamers Matthew Slater, Nate Ebner and Johnson Bademosi, and backup tackles LaAdrian Waddle and Cameron Fleming.