NFL trade rumors ahead of Tuesday’s deadline at 4 p.m. ET have already suggested the New England Patriots will likely be sellers. However, Belichick might reportedly have issues finding strong returns for Patriots trade candidates.
New England, which enters NFL games today tied for the third-worst record in football, has already begun exploring its options in advance of the Oct. 31 trade deadline. There is interest in multiple Patriots players, but a variety of factors working against the team could prevent significant returns.
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With the franchise in desperate need of more draft picks to address a weak roster, Patriots trade candidates like edge rusher Josh Uche, safety Kyle Dugger, tight end Hunter Henry, offensive lineman Michael Onwenu, tackle Trent Brown and defensive back Jalen Mills have been mentioned as potential Patriots trade candidates.
Amid New England’s efforts to make a deal happen, it appears what NFL teams are willing to give up for some of the aforementioned players isn’t as strong as the club might be hoping for on Tuesday.
Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston reached out to decision-makers around the league, polling general managers on the value of the Patriots trade candidates. One general manager shared his belief that it would be a “surprise” if any of New England’s available players netted even a third- or fourth-round pick back.
“Expiring contracts are tough. The trades that have been done, other than (Kevin) Byard, are late-round flips. Maybe Uche is worth more, but you’re paying for 10 games and no guarantee you’ll have the guy next year.”
Anonymous NFL general manager on why the New England Patriots might not receive strong returns for some of their players
Anfernee Jennings, Henry, Brown, Onwenu, Dugger and Mills are all NFL free agents in 2024. While New England might receive a few compensatory picks for them in the 2025 NFL Draft if they sign significant contracts, the potential compensation would be impacted by who the Patriots sign in free agency.
If the Patriots are committed to selling, however, making deals for whatever picks they can get might be their only option. Several of those impending free agents would likely leave for better opportunities next offseason, making now the time to get something in return for them.