The Patriots have decided to pick up left tackle Isaiah Wynn’s fifth year option meaning he is now with the team through the 2022 season.

The same cannot he said for Sony Michel. The Patriots declined to pick up Michel’s fifth year option. After a solid start to his career that saw Michel rush for 1,843 yards and 13 touchdowns between 2018 and 2019, he tapered off last season rushing for 449 yards and one touchdown.

The Patriots signaled that they may not be picking up Michel’s option when they drafted Oklahoma running back Rhamondre Stevenson this past weekend in the fourth round.

The talented Stevenson is a big back (6-0 231) who is similar to former Steelers and Jets running back LeVeon Bell.

Michel was expected to be a three down back when the Patriots drafted him 31st overall in the 2018 NFL Draft.

As for Wynn. When he’s been healthy, he has played well. Staying on the field is the key. He has only played in 16 of a possible 32 games so far. The Patriots need him to stay healthy and on the field. They are banking on it now.

When a team picks up a player’s option, that means that they are going to keep him for the full length of their rookie contract which is five years. When a team doesn’t pick up the option, they are a free agent after year four.