Should the Patriots consider bringing back their former All-Pro DB?

The New England Patriots are enjoying their time off between the end of mandatory minicamp and the start of training camp in late July, but there’s still work to be done.

New England’s management and coaching staff must constantly evaluate their roster and find solutions to their problems.

While the Patriots lost a big on-field presence in Matthew Slater this offseason, they could use another veteran special teams leader to lead the unit.

One name New England should consider is that of an old friend who is still looking for a new team for the 2024 season: defensive back Justin Bethel.

Bethel, 34, was originally a sixth-round pick of the Arizona Cardinals in 2012, and he made two first-team All-Pros and three Pro Bowls during his time there.

After playing with the Atlanta Falcons and Baltimore Ravens, Bethel joined the Patriots for three seasons, forming one of the scariest coverage teams in the league.

During his tenure with New England, Bethel played in 42 games and recorded 25 tackles, one forced fumble and two fumble recoveries.

Bethel spent the last two seasons with the Miami Dolphins, where he worked on special teams and as a deep defender.

At 34, his best years are likely behind him, but the Patriots could still benefit from signing Bethel on a cheap, short-term deal and developing him into a leader for a young group of gunners like Brenden Schooler and Isaiah Bolden.