3 Contract Extensions the Patriots Need to Explore This Offseason

Yes, New England, we know Tom Brady is the biggest focus for the Patriots this offseason, but he's an unrestricted free agent, so the team will be facing some competition on the open market.

Aside from the QB position, the Pats are hoping to get back to full strength in 2020 and return key players from injury, which would solve many of their roster issues. But what about preparing for beyond next season?

The front office needs to make sure it at least discusses a contract extension with these three players.

3. Duron Harmon

New England Patriots DB Duron Harmon / Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Folks...what is the Patriots defense without a Rutgers alum? Devin McCourty won't be in New England forever, and with the 28-year-old Harmon working nicely alongside the veteran, the Pats need to make sure he's in Foxborough anchoring the secondary for years. His contract expires after 2021, so it's best to get this done sooner and avoid the headache later, especially with a player who has played in all 16 games for six straight seasons.

2. James White

New England Patriots RB James White / Adam Glanzman/Getty Images

In a revolving door of a backfield, James White has remained a constant. Despite a down year from Sony Michel, White picked up the slack and once again served as a weapon for Tom Brady, especially in the receiving game. Over the last two seasons he's hauled in 159 receptions for 1,396 yards and 12 touchdowns. His effect on the ground is much less impactful, but I'm sure Belichick will still take 161 rushes for 688 yards and 6 touchdowns on the ground. Make sure this guy is in town after 2020 if you want TB12 back.

1. Dont'a Hightower

New England Patriots LB Dont'a Hightower / Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Hightower will be 30 by the time next season starts, but the man is still a machine. He just had his best campaign since 2014, racking up 71 tackles (8 for loss), 13 QB hits and 5.5 sacks in 15 games this year. With a Pats team very much facing uncertainty at the moment, extending Hightower to remain a member of the defense for the next 3-4 years would be a prudent move for the front office. Avoiding another high-profile free agency situation next offseason is probably the right move.