Patriots Seek Key Free Agents After Super Bowl Loss

New England looks to bolster offense and defense in offseason

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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The New England Patriots fell short in Super Bowl LX, losing 29-13 to the Seattle Seahawks. Despite a strong regular season led by second-year quarterback Drake Maye, the Patriots offense struggled against the Seahawks defense in the big game. With a first-place schedule looming in 2026, the Patriots are eyeing two key free agent targets to help them remain atop the AFC East.

Why it matters

The Patriots had a surprisingly successful 2025 season, going 14-3 and making it to the Super Bowl under new head coach Mike Vrabel. However, their loss in the big game exposed some weaknesses that need to be addressed in the offseason. Bringing in the right free agents could help the Patriots maintain their status as an AFC powerhouse.

The details

The Patriots are targeting wide receiver Christian Kirk from the Houston Texans and edge rusher Troy Hendrickson to bolster their roster. Kirk had a strong postseason and could help replace or complement star receiver Stefon Diggs, who is facing off-field legal issues. Hendrickson is one of the top pass rushers in the NFL and could give the Patriots' defense a dominant presence off the edge.

  • The Patriots lost Super Bowl LX to the Seahawks on February 9, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL season will feature a first-place schedule for the Patriots, presenting a tougher road ahead.

The players

Drake Maye

The Patriots' second-year quarterback, who emerged as an MVP candidate in 2025 but struggled in the Super Bowl loss.

Mike Vrabel

The Patriots' head coach, who led the team to a 14-3 record and a Super Bowl appearance in his second season.

Christian Kirk

The free agent wide receiver from the Houston Texans, who the Patriots are targeting to bolster their passing attack.

Troy Hendrickson

The free agent edge rusher, who the Patriots are pursuing to add a dominant pass-rushing presence to their defense.

Stefon Diggs

The Patriots' star wide receiver, who is facing off-field legal issues and may not be back with the team next season.

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What’s next

The Patriots will need to make decisions on Stefon Diggs' future with the team and determine if they can sign free agents Christian Kirk and Troy Hendrickson to bolster their roster for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

The Patriots' loss in Super Bowl LX exposed some weaknesses that need to be addressed, and the team is targeting key free agents to help them remain an AFC powerhouse despite facing a tougher schedule in 2026.