Now that the NFL Draft has passed, teams will begin the second wave of free agency – signing veteran players to round out their roster before training camp. The latest such signing sees now-former Patriot Jason McCourty head to Miami to sign with the Dolphins, as first reported by NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.

In Miami, McCourty will reunite with Brian Flores, who was the defensive play caller during McCourty’s first season in New England. The terms of the deal have not yet been reported.

McCourty’s departure wasn’t completely unexpected. He’d been testing the market, and reportedly met with the New York Giants last month. According to CLNS Media’s Evan Lazar, McCourty believed a return to New England “didn’t make sense” due to his “expected playing time and role.”

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  Last season, McCourty played 65 percent of the Patriots' defensive snaps. He served as both the third outside corner - spelling Stephon Gilmore and J.C. Jackson - and as a secondary deep safety playing next to his brother Devin. There's no immediate, obvious replacement for either role on the roster, and the roles will likely be fought for in training camp.
  
  At outside corner, the top two contenders are 2019 second-round pick Joejuan Williams, and 2020 trade acquisition Michael Jackson. The team could also dip into free agency to bring a more experienced veteran into the mix.
  
  Further complicating the matter is Stephon Gilmore's contract situation. He's due to make $7.5 million in 2021, and could end up holding out. Without McCourty, the depth at the outside corner spot could become an issue if Gilmore is unavailable and/or traded.
  
  Meanwhile, the secondary deep safety role could be treated like is was last year, and staffed with a rotation of cornerbacks. Myles Bryant showed flashes of playmaking ability on the back end, and with a strong training camp could be a candidate for a full-time position switch. Again, there are veteran free agents who could fill the role as well.

Click here for 98.5 The Sports Hub’s complete coverage of the Patriots.

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.

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