So, we some Patriots news finally! – There were rumblings that some of the team’s opt-outs could return when it was teased it a few weeks ago, but now per a report from Rapsheet, the Pats are expecting some influential players to play in 2021.
Out of the names reported, Dont’a Hightower, Pat Chung, and Marcus Cannon are set to return and are expected to be in good shape physically.
Hightower is the main one for me here, given the lack of depth at the linebacker position for the entirety of this past season. I’m excited about High’s return, he’s been greatly missed.
Chung will return to add to an already solid safeties group with Devin McCourty, Kyle Dugger, and Adrian Phillips being the notable names Chung will link up at camp.
The team didn’t have a bad year with the front line and have some good foundations for a bright future with or without Cannon, depending on what the team decides to do with him.
Cannon’s future was up in the air following his opt-out last year as some thought he may retire from the game.
If you were curious about the cap situation and what the numbers would be if the team were to cut any of the returning opt-outs, Miguel at @Patscap has you covered as always.
Which Opt-Outs Remain?
Dmac stated that he believes all eight opt-outs will return to the team this season, so that leaves:
RB Brandon Bolden
TE Matt LaCosse
FB Danny Vitale
WR Marqise Lee
G Najee Toran
