One last offseason roster move for all 32 NFL teams |
ESPN
The NFL roster construction process is never complete. Front offices work around the clock and calendar to put together what they hope will be a winning recipe. But speaking generally, we have hit the quietest portion of the football year, as OTAs and minicamps have wrapped up. The next time teams congregate will be at training camp in late July.
That means the next four or five weeks will serve as a chance for all personnel to catch their breath and gear up for the season ahead. It's also a good time to pursue those final lingering transactions that could mean all the difference, either this season or in future years. It could be a signing to shore up a weaker unit, an extension to retain a star for the long haul or a decision that could decide the direction of the franchise. Let's suggest one last move that each team should consider before the season.
AFC East
Buffalo Bills
Add depth at linebacker
It was not a surprise that Tremaine Edmunds left in free agency with a robust market available, but right now, the Bills appear to be going with a develop-from-within approach to replace him. While Matt Milano will serve as the central hub of the linebacker group, it's a young and largely untested group beyond him. Buffalo's roster is in an extremely healthy spot and is good enough to win the Super Bowl, but depth at a position they have not been active in addressing this offseason feels like one last to-do item.
Miami Dolphins
Extend defensive tackle Christian Wilkins
The Dolphins are deservedly generating plenty of buzz this offseason, as they once again acquired an All-Pro player via trade in Jalen Ramsey. But there's still in-house business to take care of in extending Wilkins, their 2019 first-round pick who has been the team's most consistent front-seven player in recent seasons. While tackles can be a misleading stat at some positions, Wilkins' 187 tackles over the past two seasons align with his high-activity skill set. He just finds a way to perpetually make plays.
New England Patriots
Sign wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins
The Patriots have already hosted the five-time All Pro on a free agent visit, so we've established that the interest is real. The team also has a need for a top wide receiver. Coach Bill Belichick's affinity for Hopkins is no secret, and Hopkins reached his greatest heights as a player under offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien during their tenure together in Houston. With news that Hopkins and O'Brien have mended their previously frosty relationship, the match is simply too good to ignore. The Patriots have the financial flexibility to make Hopkins a legitimate offer.
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