The Patriots had a busy week highlighted by the departure of J.C Jackson and the trade of Shaq Mason. The Patriots also signed we’re busy adding players this week as well.

Here are some thoughts on the Patriots latest additions.

Terrance Mitchell is a veteran corner who has started 29 games in the last two years for the Browns and Texans. In his career, the 2014 7th round pick out of Oregon has played for the Cowboys (twice), Bears, Texans (twice), Chiefs and Browns.

Mitchell is the prototypical Patriots corner at 5-11 194. He can play press coverage or bail and trail in off coverage. The Patriots gave him a one year $3 million dollar deal. He is not a lock to make the team but given the Patriots current situations at cornerback, there is a good chance he does.

Mitchell is similar to other veteran corners they have signed in the past. He offers stability and can help develop the younger players at the position.

Ty Montgomery signed a two year, $4 million dollar deal on Thursday. Montgomery is essence replaces Brandon Bolden as the team’s third running back and special teams ace. Montgomery is a better receiver than Bolden so he could definitely do more things in the offense but the signing was a cheap way to replace a player in Bolden who proved to be invaluable last season.

The Patriots rounded off their busy week yesterday by re-signing linebacker J’Whaun Bentley to a two year deal worth $9 million dollars. Bentley led the team in tackles last season with 108. He is your classic two down thumper who can play MIKE (MLB) or SAM (SLB) depending on what package the Patriots are in. Bentley can still play at a high level and is a quality scheme fit. It makes sense bringing him back given his market.

Side note. Free agent kick returner Gunner Olszewski signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers yesterday. Olszewski was a Pro Bowl kick returner in 2020. While he proved to be valuable as a return man, he never really carved out a role for himself on offense. Olszewski is tough and fearless. He could become a fan favorite in Pittsburgh.

Much to the chagrin of Patriots fans, the team continues to shop in the bargain bin for obvious reasons. They don’t have cap space. It is frustrating but it is also reality when you consider how much money they spent last off season. The moves they are making are the best moves they can make right now.