With free agency approaching, it’s almost the time of the offseason where teams may take a splash to acquire that player they need to help them compete for the illustrious Lombardi Trophy. Today, we’ll take a look at each team in the AFC East and decide what each team needs heading into 2021 free agency.
Buffalo Bills (13-3)
Projected Cap Space: $16.5 million
1. Acquire an edge rusher to complement Jerry Hughes
If one thing stays to stand, it’s that a competent edge rush is a big part in winning championships. The Bills ranked middle of the pack when it came to sacks and QB pressures, so improving their pass rush is a big objective for this front office heading into free agency.
2. Improve the running game
It’s no secret that the Bills rushing attack is weak. The Bills ranked top ten in the league for passing percentage, throwing the rock 59.2 percent of the time. The Bills need to have a more balanced attack to help Josh Allen out, so getting a good running back is key for this team.
3. Get a secondary cornerback to complement Tre'Davious White
While the Bills secondary is good, there’s always room for improvement. During the first half of the year, White struggled which led to the defence being in the bottom ten of the league when it came to passing yards allowed and total yards allowed. While White and the defence did regain their form halfway through the season, it wouldn’t hurt to add another good cornerback in free agency or the draft.
Miami Dolphins (10-6)
Projected Cap Space: $24.4 million
1. Get a No. 1 wide receiver
If the Dolphins really want to give their franchise QB the tools to really compete, it’s important that the team upgrades their receiving core. DeVante Parker is a good No. 2 wide receiver and red zone threat, but the team lacks a star wide receiver to help elevate their offence. Getting that future No. 1 receiver for Tua Tagovailoa can help him lift this Miami offence to greater heights.
2. Improve the running game
The running back room is concerning for the Dolphins. They ranked near the bottom of the league in rushing yards per game (105.5) and per carry (3.9). While Myles Gaskin does provide an all-purpose value in a complementary role for the Dolphins, the starting job is still there for the taking.
3. Acquire an edge rusher
One of the bigger concerns for the Dolphins is acquiring that elite edge threat. The Dolphins middling pass rush was propped up by a high blitz rate last season, so just imagine what Brian Flores could accomplish with better weapons on the perimeter of his defensive line.
New England Patriots (7-9)
Projected Cap Space: $68.5 million
1. Improve the receiving core
While many may point the finger at Cam Newton for New England’s offensive woes last season, he can’t shoulder all of the blame. Newton had arguably one of the worst receiving corps in the league, so improving it after resigning Newton is probably the first thing this front office should look to do entering free agency.
2. Boost the offensive line
The offensive line needs some repairing. The line struggled during last season, so improving it is a must. The Pats have made a great start though by trading for OT Trent Brown.
3. Improve the defensive line
Even with several 2020 opt-outs expected to return, their defense is still in shambles. One of their biggest holes is at the defensive line, which was lackluster last season. Look for the Patriots to improve their defensive line heading into free agency.
New York Jets (2-14)
Projected Cap Space: $69.2 million
1. Improve the receiving core
The receiving core is a clear weakness in the Big Apple. The Jets’ front office needs to surround their former first-overall pick who they invested much capital into a talented receiving core to truly see if they should move on from him.
2. Boost the linebacker core
With former 49ers defensive coordinator Robert Saleh now at the helm, expect the Jets to make a splash in trying to acquire coverage linebackers to fit Saleh’s defensive schemes. It’s a big weakness for the team that needs improvement.
3. Get a No. 1 cornerback
The Jets haven’t had a lockdown corner since the days Darelle Revis wore the white and green. It’s been a problem position for multiple years, so it’s a must-improvement for the Jets heading into free agency.