In 2023, the New England Patriots were the only team to score less points than them. With all the changes the squad is going through, that can never happen again.
Alex Van Pelt has taken over as the new coordinator, handling playcalling. Moreover, the Patriots know they need to bolster their receiving group even if highly-touted rookie quarterback Jacoby Brissett is expected to start until then.
After failing to sign Calvin Ridley, the Patriots have reportedly “looked into the trade market,” according to Adam Caplan of Pro Football Network. This offseason, Caplan added, the organization hopes to add “at least one impact player” to the receiver position.
Taking into account that they’re probably not done yet, here are two possible trade targets for the Patriots this offseason.
Surrounding a rookie quarterback with weapons is one of the best ways to help him succeed, and Tee Higgins, at 6-foot-4, certainly fits the bill. The 25-year-old receiver was given the franchise tag by the Cincinnati Bengals, but there is also hope that a trade might be completed in its place.
Higgins’ current contract is expected to expire in 2024 at the latest, paying him $21.8 million if he signs the tag. However, an extension is desired by all parties. However, Joe Burrow’s $275 million agreement begins next season, and the Bengals must also pay Ja’Marr Chase either this summer or the next, so there might not be enough money for Higgins as well.
Because they have a lot of cap room, the Patriots went after Ridley before he signed with Tennessee. As a two-time 1,000-yard receiver who may not even be at the height of his game, Higgins would take over as the best option in town right away. He may fit in well with New England.