PATRIOTS FREE AGENTS: Jonathan Jones (PFF FA Rank: 74th), Alex Austin (ERFA).
NOTABLE EXTERNAL FREE AGENTS: D.J. Reed (NYJ, PFF FA Rank: 6th), Charvarius Ward (SF, PFF FA Rank: 13th), Rasul Douglas (BUF, PFF FA Rank: 15th), Carlton Davis III (DET, PFF FA Rank: 21st), Asante Samuel Jr. (LAC, PFF FA Rank: 26th), Byron Murphy (MIN, PFF FA Rank: 33rd)
POSITION ANALYSIS:
2025 Free Agency Preview: Cornerbacks
The New England Patriots head into the 2025 offseason with some significant questions in the secondary, particularly at the cornerback position. Jonathan Jones, a staple of the Patriots' defense and one of their top internal free agents, is set to hit the open market. Ranking 74th on Pro Football Focus' free agency list, Jones has provided steady play in the secondary, but his future in New England remains uncertain. Meanwhile, Alex Austin, an exclusive rights free agent (ERFA), showed flashes of potential and could be retained as the team continues to develop him. Austin had a strong finish to both 2023 and 2024 and just needs to string a full season of consistency together to carve out his spot as an outside starter.
If the Patriots choose to bolster their cornerback room with an external addition, several high-quality options are available, it's one of the deepest position groups of 2025's free agency class. Here's a look at some of the most notable free-agent cornerbacks and how they could fit into the Patriots' defensive scheme.
Notable External Free Agents
D.J. Reed (NYJ) – PFF FA Rank: 6th
Reed has emerged as one of the league's most consistent cover corners, excelling in both man and zone schemes. His quickness and ability to mirror receivers make him an ideal fit for a Patriots defense that values disciplined coverage and versatility. If New England wants to make a splash at cornerback, Reed would provide a legitimate shutdown presence opposite Christian Gonzalez.
Charvarius Ward (SF) – PFF FA Rank: 13th
Ward has thrived in San Francisco, proving himself as a physical, press-man corner who can handle top receiving threats. At 6-foot-1, 200 pounds, he has the size and athleticism to match up against bigger receivers, making him an intriguing fit for a Patriots defense that has often employed aggressive man-to-man coverage schemes. Ward's ability to play on an island would give New England a much-needed boost in the secondary.
Rasul Douglas (BUF) – PFF FA Rank: 15th
Douglas brings veteran experience and strong ball-hawking skills, having recorded multiple seasons with impressive interception numbers. His ability to read quarterbacks and jump routes would fit well in a Patriots defense that emphasizes turnovers. Douglas could provide leadership and stability while also serving as a reliable option in New England's defensive backfield.
Carlton Davis III (DET) – PFF FA Rank: 21st
Davis is another physical corner who thrives in press coverage. He has experience shadowing top receivers and excels in disrupting routes at the line of scrimmage. If the Patriots are looking for a battle-tested corner with the ability to take on WR1 matchups, Davis would be a strong option.
Asante Samuel Jr. (LAC) – PFF FA Rank: 26th
Samuel is a feisty, instinctual playmaker with excellent ball skills with a name that will be familiar to Patriots fans. His ability to jump routes and generate turnovers could make him an excellent addition to a Patriots defense that values opportunistic secondary play. Samuel's size (5-foot-10) may make him better suited for slot duties, but his versatility could allow him to contribute in various roles within the Patriots' scheme.
Byron Murphy (MIN) – PFF FA Rank: 33rd
Murphy has quietly developed into a solid coverage corner with inside-outside flexibility. His ability to play in the slot and on the perimeter would provide the Patriots with a versatile defensive back who can match up with different types of receivers. Murphy's physicality and tackling ability also make him a strong fit for a defense that emphasizes toughness.
Conclusion
The Patriots have several directions they can take in rebuilding their cornerback group. If they want a top-tier addition, Reed or Ward would bring elite coverage skills. Douglas and Davis offer veteran reliability and physicality, while Samuel and Murphy provide versatility and playmaking ability. Whether New England re-signs Jonathan Jones or looks outside the organization, they have an opportunity to solidify their secondary with a strong free-agent addition.
DISCLAIMER: The views and thoughts expressed in this article are those of the writer and don't necessarily reflect those of the organization. Read Full Disclaimer
