As we discussed earlier, the New England Patriots are likely looking to upgrade their cornerback corps this offseason, and already have rumored interest in pending free agent Sean Smith. According to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald, there's a couple of more names to add to the list:

The Patriots are hot on cornerbacks. Been told they've inquired about Derek Cox and Chris Gamble.

— Jeff Howe (@jeffphowe) March 9, 2013

We already discussed Chris Gamble in a little detail yesterday, as he was just released following an injury shortened season in Carolina.

Cox is a younger option than Gamble at 26. He played the first four years of his career in Jacksonville, playing primarily the right cornerback position. He's got great athleticism, and good size at 6'1" and 195 lbs. In 2012, Cox started all 12 games he played in, recording 60 tackles, 11 passes defensed, and four interceptions.

At this point, it's intriguing to see the Patriots putting feelers out there for so many top cornerbacks. At this point, it's unclear if these players are seen as a plan B if Aqib Talib isn't re-signed, or if they're seen as complimentary pieces to Talib and what they already have.