I’m really kind of surprised that neither has been brought back already. Especially Edelman. And it seemed initially like they’d try to bring Lloyd back at a reduced rate.
But if I had to pick one it would be Edelman. We know what he brings on special teams, and is a top punt returner. As a receiver it seemed like he was really starting to blossom before the injuries. You can ignore the injuries with him, but when you’ve had such limited success developing receivers it seems to me like it should be a no-brainer to keep working with Edelman.
My guess is that he wanted to see what else is out there, maybe if anyone would potentially give him starter money, which it doesn’t look like they will. If it’s a tie between the Pats and Giants, I’d guess he’d pick the Pats.
As for Lloyd, it was a ballsy move to let him go when they had no other legit returning receiver under contract. But if the stories about everyone kind of being fed up with his up-and-down attitude then I get it. There’s a reason he hasn’t been able to stick anywhere and is still on the market despite putting up a respectable year last year.
Ultimately I’d rather see a rookie get a shot at the X receiver spot. Lloyd would never have the physicality or RAC ability the Pats want, and to keep him around would’ve been somewhat of a desperation move and we know the Pats don’t play like that.