Here is what I am being told about Patriots free agency. Much of this is already out there. The Patriots have a plan and that plan centers around culture, the right players and young players.

To quote Bane from the Dark Knight Rises, “Let’s not stand here on cermony, Mr. Wayne…..”

Here’s what I am hearing.

-As reported by Andrew Callahan and Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald, character is going to matter in free agency and the draft. Vrabel is big on building the right culture. He does not want guys who will not buy in or sacrifice.

-Age matters. The Patriots are willing to give hefty second contracts to the right guys. They are willing to go years and a high AAV for guys 24-28. Shorter term, more up front money to third contract free agents, ages 28-31. This is in line with Vrabel’s desire to build a young, culturally sound environment and team.

-The Patriots prefer to sign a wide receiver or offensive tackle and hold onto draft capital. From what I have been told, they are open to taking a tackle in the first round of the draft but the concerns regarding some of the tackles in this class are the same as other people have.

-They will spend big at a position we don’t expect. Vrabel and Wolf are taking a whole roster reset approach. Safety, cornerback, linebacker are three positions to watch. Depending on who is available of course.

• The draft plan is wide open right now. Everything is on the table. The organization sees the draft as good not great. Not a big gap in talent. Does this mean a trade up or down is possible? Sure but from what my sources tell me, it is too early to tell.
  

• As previously reported, the Patriots have had internal discussions about trading for a receiver but there are concerns about inheriting a burdensome contract and fit. Among other potential pitfalls. Preference is to add a veteran like a Godwin but it’ll be tough to stave off Tampa.

-Harold Landry was the first splash signing but the entire league expects the Patriots to make at least another one or two. I still think it is Miltion Williams and or Godwin or Josh Sweat.

-Trading Davon Godchaux was the first step in the Patriots willingness to move veterans from their roster. It is more to create opportunity for guys who fit what Vrabel wants to do both schematically and culturally.