2012 NFL Free Agents: Brandon Lloyd to Join New England Patriots?

St. Louis Rams wide receiver Brandon Lloyd is set to hit free agency on March 13, and by all indications he really wants to end up playing for the New England Patriots.

Lloyd has a serious affection for Patriots' offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who he owes much of his success to from their days together with the Denver Broncos. Then last year, when McDaniels was with the Rams, the team traded for Lloyd. Clearly the two guys like each other.

During an appearance on CSN New England this week, Lloyd claimed he was "very interested" in playing for the Patriots. He went on to express admiration for both quarterback Tom Brady and head coach Bill Belichick and claimed his top priority was winning, not making a ton of money.

Those comments certainly raised some eyebrows and made it seem like Lloyd would be willing to give New England a big time discount for the chance compete for championships.

The Patriots are desperately in need for a true No. 2 wideout to line up across from Wes Welker. Lloyd would certainly fit that mold. He's a guy who led the NFL in receiving yards in 2010 and made his only Pro Bowl appearance.

During that season Lloyd hauled in 77 catches for 1,448 yards and 11 touchdowns. In 15 games split between the Rams and Broncos last season he had 70 receptions for 966 yards and five touchdowns.

I think Lloyd would be a perfect fit for the Patriots, especially if he's motivated and even willing to take less money to play for McDaniels and Belichick. That would leave New England with extra money to make other moves, like possibly adding Mario Williams, who the team is said to be interested in.