One Surprise Cut the New England Patriots Could Still Make This Offseason

Versatility is paramount in Bill Belichick's defense, and no defensive back has exemplified that better than Patrick Chung, who has seen time as a deep safety, slot corner, and linebacker over the last decade.

Unfortunately for Chung, he has started to accumulate injuries at a frightening clip, which means he could be the next holdover from the Tom Brady championship years to be cut loose by Bill Belichick.

Chung has two more years left on his contract, but New England would only be on the hook for $4 million in dead cap if they cut him this year, which they now have the ability to do given how they drafted.

Sure, we could argue guys like Mohamed Sanu and Rex Burkhead, but it's clear the offense needs all the help it can get, especially if the Pats are serious about developing Jarrett Stidham.

The Patriots are clearly preparing for Chung's departure, as they signed former Chargers safety Adrian Phillips and used their first selection in the 2020 NFL Draft on Lenoir-Rhyne safety Kyle Dugger, a premium athlete many believe compares favorably to Chung given his versatility.

Chung, at his very best, was an indispensable member of the New England defense. Unfortunately, he's becoming too old and injury prone to be trusted to man that role for the foreseeable future, and his future in New England could be in jeopardy because of it.