The New England Patriots have been a popular name when discussing trade rumors, but they have yet to actually make a trade this offseason. However, with draft night coming up, this may be subject to change. The Patriots have a lot of picks and are known to trade a few picks every draft.
They would primarily be open to trading one of their picks if a star wide receiver like Brandon Aiyuk were on the market. That is precisely what Gary Davenport of Bleacher Report predicted them to do in his most recent article about potential trade packages for Aiyuk.
Davenport projected the Patriots would trade their first-round pick in exchange for the San Francisco 49ers’ first-round pick, a second-round pick, a conditional third-round pick, and Aiyuk. While it might seem steep, he argued that it makes sense for both teams.
New England’s first-round pick is valuable because it could land Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter, who are regarded as the best two prospects in the draft. The article also mentions that Aiyuk’s value is really low because teams don’t want to pay his big contract if they don’t know what they are getting.
Aiyuk is coming off an ACL injury, and he had a shaky start to last year before he got hurt. Regardless, it is mentioned that the Patriots are playing the long game, so even if Aiyuk is hurt and rusty, they should see it through until he gets his legs back. If he can return to any bit of the player he was before, the deal will be worth it.
With a first-round pick, the Patriots can select the offensive tackle they desperately need. Additional picks will help them add depth at cornerback, running back, and tight end positions. Although risky, acquiring a healthy Brandon Aiyuk and those extra picks could help round out their roster.
Meanwhile, the 49ers would receive the fourth pick, potentially landing a game-changer like Jalen Carter or Kool-Aid McKinstry. This could be a strong foundation for their partial rebuild after losing several players. Even if those players are off the board, solid options remain.
Tetairoa McMillan could replace the departed Deebo Samuel, Will Campbell would help reinforce the offensive line, Mason Graham or Jalon Walker could strengthen the defensive line, and Will Johnson may be a viable replacement for Charvarius Ward. For a bold move, Ashton Jeanty might surprise many.
With an upgraded offense, the Patriots would be in a strong position, while the 49ers would add a top prospect to their rebuilding efforts. Rumors suggest the Patriots may trade back, and the 49ers have been linked to trading Aiyuk, making this trade scenario a real possibility before the draft.
Additionally, the Patriots have been linked to the wide receiver market, and a trio of Stefon Diggs, Brandon Aiyuk, and Hunter Henry would provide solid support for young quarterback Drake Maye. The first trade of the offseason for the Patriots could be coming soon.