"Many hoped, and reports even suggested, they would make a move for a pass rusher or a wide receiver, but chose to stand pat. In some ways, it wasn't a bad decision, especially if you look at the players who were dealt and how they wouldn't have been a good fit for the Patriots. However, there wasn't much said about Mike Vrabel and Co.'s behind-the-scenes moves, leading many to believe they weren't doing much to improve their roster this season."
"But that is far from the truth, according to Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer, who name-dropped a specific player he knew the Patriots called about. And while that's good news for fans, it's not a name anyone had considered, and a deal wasn't done, so there's not much to get excited about. It doesn't sound like the Patriots had many options to inquire about before the trade deadline"
The New England Patriots made no trades at the 2025 NFL deadline and instead signed free-agent wide receiver Brenden Rice, causing fan disappointment. Many hoped for additions at pass rusher or wide receiver. The decision carried some logic given the players dealt and potential poor fits. Patriots pursued behind-the-scenes options, making at least one inquiry to Seattle about linebacker Boye Mafe, though no deal materialized. Mafe is a 26-year-old second-round pick from 2022 who broke out in 2023 with notable tackles, sacks and turnovers. His production fell in 2024 and he had not recorded a sack in 2025.
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