Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald believes that free agents Andre Carter, Austin Collie, Matthew Mulligan and Will Svitek could all potentially re-sign with the Patriots.

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Nick O'Malley](http://blog.masslive.com/patriots/2014/03/nfldraft2014patriotsprospe.html#incartflyoutsports) of The Republican takes a look at NFL Draft prospect Tyler Gaffney and wonders if the running back can be a fit with the Patriots in the wake of LeGarrette Blount's departure.

"The Patriots already have a pair of top backs in Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen, so taking a running back in the early rounds isn't that high of a priority (though still a possibility)," writes O'Malley. "A later round option like Gaffney could be much more realistic, especially one that can do many of the same things that Blount can do. Gaffney would fit in well as a short-yardage/goal line back, especially in situations where the Patriots bring in a jumbo package." READ MORE>>

Christopher Price of WEEI.com shares his third NFL mock draft of the season and has the Patriots selecting DL Ra'Shede Hageman with the 29th overall selection in the first round.

"Even with some resolution to the Vince Wilfork contract flap, we've been consistent in our belief that Hageman is the best fit for the Patriots if they end up sticking at No. 29, and we'€™re going to stick with him here," writes Price. "However, keep two names in mind: UCLA offensive lineman Xavier Su'€™a-Filo and Florida State's Kelvin Benjamin also are possibilities." READ MORE>>

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Doug Farrar](http://nfl.si.com/2014/03/28/2014-nfl-free-agency-most-improved-units/) of Sports Illustrated calls the Patriots secondary one of the most improved units in football following the free agent signings of cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner.

"These two deals give the Pats optimal flexibility in a loaded secondary; with Revis as the point man, Browner beating up No. 2 guys and the Ryan/Dennard combo perhaps able to hit more reps in the slot, the Patriots secondary will be very interesting to watch from week to week in the new season," writes Farrar. READ MORE>>

Mike Reiss of ESPNBoston.com takes a look at the Patriots biggest needs, with defensive end depth leading the way.

"Is Michael Buchanan, the 2013 seventh-round draft choice out of Illinois, ready to graduate to a nickel rushing role? There is a notable drop-off after starters Chandler Jones and Rob Ninkovich," writes Reiss. READ MORE>>