Bedard: Separating the NFL cap casualties into Patriots' interest categories

The cap casualties around the league have started happening and they are going to be coming with a flurry into next week.

We'll give you our best estimate — a mix of some inside information, league source work and our own knowledge of the player — of where we see the Patriots' level of interest in three tiers: Higher Interest, Later And/Or On Their Terms, and Doubtful/Not A Fit.

• I would expect the Patriots to be very active when it comes to these "street" free agents — at least the players who meet the criteria in the next bullet. Like other smart teams in regards to the compensatory pick formula, the Patriots are very cognizant that these signings do not count against your team when it comes to that formula. Basically, if one of your free agents signs for big money (and playing time) elsewhere, then you're in line for a third-round pick (the top compensation) the following year. For example, the Patriots will have an extra third this year for Tom Brady, and two fourths for Kyle Van Noy and Jamie Collins. If the Patriots signed three similar regular free agents (contracts just expire or void) last offseason, they wouldn't have those three extra picks in this draft.


• The Patriots are looking for youth and, if the position calls for it, versatility. You can't be a one-trick pony at receiver, or even tight end. On the edge of the defense, you can't just be a run stuffer or pass rusher, at least when it comes to the Patriots getting into a bidding war and offering a big contract.


• Teams, including the Patriots, will put the squeeze on these veterans to accept deals before free agency starts because the money and opportunities will dry up. Look for a rush to come before March 15, which starts the legal tampering period ahead of the March 17 start of the league year.