Despite having $42 million in remaining cap space, Patriots GM Eliot Wolf still wants nine veteran players to accept pay cuts if they hope to stay with the team

Foxborough, Massachusetts – Following the loss in Super Bowl LX to the Seattle Seahawks, the New England Patriots have officially entered a pivotal offseason. Under head coach Mike Vrabel, the Patriots have returned to contender status, but team leadership has made one thing clear: continuity does not mean keeping everything the same.

According to league sources, general manager Eliot Wolf has delivered a direct message to several veteran players. If they want to remain in Foxborough for the 2026 season, they will need to accept reduced salaries. The Patriots currently have roughly $42 million in available cap space, but Wolf is focused on maximizing long-term flexibility.

That philosophy centers around one core piece: Drake Maye. The Patriots are determined to avoid paying premium money for roles that no longer justify the cost. “Continuity matters, but value matters more,” an internal source said, describing the mindset Wolf is applying during this restructuring phase.

The most high-profile name on the list is Stefon Diggs. While still a recognizable star, his quiet playoff performance and lingering off-field questions have made the Patriots unwilling to carry his massive cap hit. Wolf is seeking a more team-friendly deal, and without it, Diggs may need to explore other options.

At other positions, Hunter Henry and Austin Hooper have both been informed that their current salaries no longer align with their roles. Henry remains a locker-room leader, but his production does not match a nearly $12 million salary. Hooper provides experience, yet New England is unwilling to pay premium money for a blocking-focused TE2.

The defense is also facing adjustments. K’Lavon Chaisson, Anfernee Jennings, and Christian Elliss are all viewed as falling short of their cap impact. Elliss, in particular, has drawn scrutiny with an $8.6 million cap hit for a rotational linebacker. “You pay for impact, not familiarity,” is a phrase repeatedly echoed within the organization.

On offense, Thayer Munford Jr. and Rhamondre Stevenson represent the clearest signs of a philosophical shift. Munford struggled under pressure, while Stevenson lost his unquestioned RB1 status due to ball-security issues. The message from Foxborough is unmistakable: this is not a teardown, but a cold recalibration. For these nine players, the choice is simple — accept less to stay, or move on as the Patriots continue to evolve.