Overlooked trade fits might be exactly what the Patriots need in 2026

"The New England Patriots have made a Super Bowl run no one expected. Per usual, the greatest franchise of all time is being criticized once again, this time for their easy schedule. While they had the easiest strength of schedule in the league, their trio of playoff wins legitimizes their defense as one of the league's best. Their 12 draft picks and cap space will help them continue improving their squad, but veterans could be the best way to add juice ahead of 2026."

"The Patriots saw major roster turnover this season after spending the most money in free agency and making 11 draft picks. New England's squad is young, and despite their cap space, it seems unlikely they'll go hog wild in free agency again. Instead, I'd expect them to ship off a handful of draft picks for veteran depth. In a recent article, PFF's Bradley Locker cited 15 trade candidates this offseason."

"but he took a major step back with Caleb Williams and other young pieces coming in. Over the last two seasons, he's had just 1,648 yards, and in 2025, he saw career lows in catches and yards. The Bears are in win-now mode, so parting from Moore may not be their first instinct. Nonetheless, Rome Odunze and Luther Burden have stepped up as legitimate young threats, while Colston Loveland has quickly become one of the league's most promising tight ends."

The Patriots overcame criticisms about an easy schedule by winning three playoff games, lending credibility to a top defense. The team holds double-digit draft picks and meaningful cap space to upgrade the roster but underwent major roster turnover after heavy free-agent spending and numerous selections. New England's roster skews young, making targeted veteran additions via trades more likely than another free-agent spending spree. PFF listed 15 potential trade candidates, including five quarterbacks and several non-quarterback targets. One prominent trade target is WR D.J. Moore, whose recent production declined and who carries a $28.5 million cap hit that could be reduced if traded for a mid-round pick.

Read at Musket Fire