The NFL Trade Deadline looms on Tuesday at 4:00 PM EST, conveniently coinciding with All Hallows Eve. The big question: Will the Patriots buy, sell, or maintain the status quo?
Players to Trade:
- Josh Uche: Uche, although talented, has been dealing with injuries and is primarily a situational pass rusher, playing only 38% of the defensive snaps. Given his impending free agency, if the Patriots can fetch a 5th-round pick for him, it’s a smart move, considering their future cap space and positional needs.
- Lawrence Guy: Guy, at 33, is an aging run-stuffer. While he won’t yield much in a trade (perhaps a 7th-round pick), a team in need of a veteran could benefit. Given his free agency next year, the Patriots might not re-sign him.
- Adrian Phillips: Phillips’ playing time has decreased with the emergence of other safeties, making him expendable. A contender could use his services, and the Patriots might get a low-end draft pick in return.
- JuJu Smith-Schuster: While moving a big contract like Smith-Schuster’s can be challenging, the Patriots could consider it, especially with injuries to other wide receivers. However, their need for his services may keep him in New England.
- Mike Gesicki: Gesicki’s talents have been underutilized this season, and he could be a valuable asset in the right system. Requiring at least a 4th-round pick as compensation for him seems reasonable.
- Jalen Mills: Mills, a veteran cornerback, could provide depth to a team in need of a cornerback. While not advocating for his trade, the Patriots should consider any offers they receive.
- Ezekiel Elliott: While Elliott has performed well, he might be underused in the current system. A contending team in need of a running back could trade for him, but his contract situation limits the return the Patriots could get.
- Mac Jones: Despite a promising start, Jones has faced a steep learning curve due to the Patriots’ offensive choices. He appears to be struggling and may benefit from a fresh start. If another team offers a 3rd-round pick, it could be worth considering.
Players to Keep:
- Kyle Dugger: Dugger’s recent performance shows he has the potential to be a consistent playmaker. Extending his contract would send a positive message to the team about rewarding players with second contracts.
- Trent Brown: Brown’s motivation for a new contract has made him an essential asset in the offensive line. While his offseason behavior might not be ideal, his performance makes him worth re-signing with specific contract clauses.
- Hunter Henry: Henry, a team captain and leader, should be re-signed despite his lower-than-expected performance this season.
- Pharoah Brown: Brown has been a pleasant surprise at tight end and deserves an extension.
- Kendrick Bourne: Despite a season-ending injury, re-signing Bourne to a one-year contract with a club option for rehabilitation is a wise move.
- Michael Owenu: While retaining Owenu would be beneficial, his desire for a more substantial payday might lead him elsewhere.
- Myles Bryant: Bryant, an undrafted free agent who has become a valuable contributor, should be re-signed as a cost-effective depth option.
Trade Targets: None. The Patriots should not be buyers in this rebuilding phase. The next nine games will reveal which players are committed to the team’s future.
Promotions:
- Tyquan Thornton and Kayshon Boutte could be released from the doghouse to replace injured wide receivers.
- The Patriots may bring in several wide receivers for the practice squad.
- Don’t expect Julian Edelman to return.
Will Grier: Grier, a free agent next year, should be given a chance to demonstrate his abilities. The Patriots should explore options for a new quarterback through the draft or trade, allowing the rookie time to develop before throwing them into the fray, as they did with Mac Jones.”
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