The New England Patriots had a key decision to make regarding the future of their leading pass-catcher heading into 2022. With Jakobi Meyers set for free agency, the Patriots opted to use their second-round tender on the 25-year-old, preventing him from hitting the open market, per Adam Schefter.

In doing so, the Patriots will prevent the wide receiver from becoming a free agent. However, the team decided not to tender the contract of fullback Jakob Johnson, who is now set to command significant interest in free agency.

Meyers had his best season in the NFL in 2021, recording a team-high 83 receptions and 866 yards, alongside 2 touchdowns. He likely would have seen a number of teams vying for his signature in free agency, but ultimately the Patriots made a wise decision to keep him in town for another year.

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It's unclear if the two sides will look to work out a contract extension after the Patriots' latest decision, but Mac Jones will have one of his favorite weapons back in his arsenal for his second season in the league.

The Patriots picked up Meyers as an undrafted free agent out of North Carolina State, and he's developed to become a key cog in their offense. After having made just one start as a rookie, Meyers featured in 16 games for New England last season and built a strong rapport with Jones, something the team is hoping to further improve on in 2022.

With Meyers secured for at least another season, the Patriots will look to plug their additional needs via free agency, which is set to get underway on Wednesday, March 16.