PATRIOTS FREE AGENTS: Jaylinn Hawkins
NOTABLE EXTERNAL FREE AGENTS: Jevon Holland (MIA, PFF FA Rank: 3rd), Talanoa Hufanaga (SF, PFF FA Rank: 23rd), Camryn Bynum (MIN, PFF FA Rank: 31st), Justin Reid (KC, PFF FA Rank: 50th).
POSITION ANALYSIS:
2025 Free Agency Preview: Safeties
The New England Patriots enter the 2025 offseason with an important decision to make in the secondary. Safety Jaylinn Hawkins, their only internal free agent at the position, took a big step forward in 2024, showcasing his ability to contribute both in coverage and as a physical presence in run support. While the Patriots could look to retain Hawkins, they may also explore external options to bolster the group, despite the presence of Kyle Dugger, Jabrill Peppers, Marte Mapu and Dell Pettus.
With several high-quality safeties available in free agency, New England has a chance to upgrade its defensive backfield with a proven playmaker if they need to adjust their personnel to fit their planned scheme under Mike Vrabel. Here's a look at some of the most notable free-agent safeties who could fit in Foxborough.
Notable External Free Agents
Jevon Holland (MIA) – PFF FA Rank: 3rd
Holland is one of the most dynamic young safeties in the NFL, excelling in both deep coverage and run support. His elite range and playmaking ability would give the Patriots a true difference-maker on the back end and complement their current players at the position who all skew more toward in-the-box, strong safety types. If New England is looking for a top-tier safety who can elevate their pass defense, Holland would be a dream acquisition.
Talanoa Hufanga (SF) – PFF FA Rank: 23rd
Hufanga has been a high-energy, hard-hitting playmaker for the 49ers, earning Pro Bowl recognition for his ability to disrupt opposing offenses. He thrives in the box and has a knack for creating turnovers, making him an ideal fit for a Patriots defense that values versatility and aggression.
Camryn Bynum (MIN) – PFF FA Rank: 31st
Bynum has quietly developed into a solid coverage safety for the Vikings, demonstrating good instincts and ball skills. He has the ability to play both deep safety and in the slot, giving the Patriots flexibility in their secondary. If New England is looking for a reliable and versatile safety to pair with Kyle Dugger, Bynum could be an ideal target.
Justin Reid (KC) – PFF FA Rank: 50th
Reid has been a steady contributor in Kansas City, providing a mix of experience, leadership, and playmaking ability. He's an effective tackler and can match up well against tight ends, making him a valuable asset for a defense that faces elite pass catchers in the AFC. If the Patriots want a veteran presence to help stabilize the secondary, Reid would be a strong option.
Conclusion
The Patriots have multiple options when it comes to improving the safety position but it isn't a position of pressing need unless the defense requires a pure free safety type. If they want an elite game-changer, Holland is the best available choice. Hufanga brings physicality and energy, while Bynum offers versatility and coverage ability. Reid provides a veteran presence with proven production. Whether they choose to re-sign Jaylinn Hawkins or pursue one of these external options, the Patriots are in pretty good shape at the safety spot.
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
