The New England Patriots could desperately use a star wide receiver, and they are expected to be in the market for landing one this offseason.
Most expected Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins to be the primary target for the Patriots, but that situation is uncertain if the Bengals use the franchise tag on him.
If Higgins is off the table, the Patriots could be eyeing a trade for a receiver. When responding to questions in a mailbag, The Athletic’s Chad Graff discussed some potential trade options for the Patriots if they choose to go down that path.
Graff wrote:
So, my early guess (with more reporting hopefully to come soon) is that the Pats will aggressively pursue a trade. That could be as ambitious as calling New Orleans about Chris Olave or Seattle about DK Metcalf. Or it might have to be settling for a deal with the Los Angles Rams for Cooper Kupp.
Kupp’s name has come up often as a potential option for the Patriots, but he also turns 32 years old in June.
Olave battled injuries throughout the 2024 season and only appeared in six games, recording 32 receptions for 400 yards and a touchdown. Metcalf recorded 66 catches for 992 yards and five touchdowns. Both receivers would be intriguing options for the Patriots.
There are no guarantees in free agency. It takes two teams to make a deal at the negotiating table. However, the Patriots are well-positioned with draft picks and salary cap space to be at the forefront of the free agency and trade talk.