3 Impending Patriots Free Agents With the Most to Prove in 2020

The Patriots are a team with a lot to prove in 2020. Without Tom Brady, expectations are not nearly as high as they usually are, but for the Patriots to have success in 2020, every player will need to rise to the occasion. This is especially true for these three players, as their contracts expire following the 2020 campaign. If they wish to earn another contract in New England, they'll need to prove it with their play next season.

3. LG Joe Thuney

After signing his franchise tag in March, many expected left guard Thuney to be traded before the NFL Draft. The Patriots are up against the cap and Thuney was expected to make way in order for the Pats to save some money. However, Thuney remains on the roster and is expected to start for the Patriots come Week 1 at his usual LG spot. With that said, he needs to prove to the Pats that he's worth a long-term deal. Will he get that job done and earn a big-time contract?

2. CB Jason McCourty

The Patriots secondary is their strongest position group. With the emergence of J.C. Jackson last season, it became even stronger. Cornerback Jason McCourty had a solid campaign last year, with a PFF grade of 74.4, but will need to improve on that if he wants to hold off Jackson for the starting role. At 32, he'll need to perform extremely well in order to earn another contract from the Patriots.

1. WR Mohamed Sanu

Mohamed Sanu was extremely disappointing in his eight games with the Patriots last year. He totaled only 207 yards on 26 receptions, which was dismal for a team desperate for receiving options. He will need to bounce back in a big way in order for the Pats to re-sign him next offseason. The entire wide receiving corps has a lot to prove in 2020 and will need to help out Jarrett Stidham as much as possible in his first year as a starter. Sanu could be a big part of that if he can find his stride.