Patriots' new trade opportunity could change their entire defensive rebuild

"The New England Patriots' defense is clearly a strong unit, as they rank in the top ten in points allowed per game. Their run defense has been particularly impressive, as the additions of Milton Williams and Harold Landry have helped support the defensive line. Rookie Joshua Farmer and free agent Khyiris Tonga have also gotten plenty of opportunities, and the unit holds teams to less than 84 yards on the ground per game. No rusher has eclipsed 50 yards against them this season."

"For as good as they have been against the run, they have struggled against passing attacks. Christian Gonzalez's return and the emergence of Marcus Jones have helped, but Carlton Davis is looking to be a bust of a free agent signing through six weeks. After an electric start for the pass rush, they've mellowed to 18th in the league in sacks per game, at 2.2. The group is tied with the Saints and Giants."

"In a recent article from Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox, it's suggested that Kayvon Thibodeaux, the fifth overall pick in 2022, could be on the move via a trade. The former Oregon Duck was one of two top-seven picks for the Giants in '22, neither of which has panned out as expected (Evan Neal). Thibodeaux is a solid player, but hasn't lived up to his No. 5 overall billing with 21 sacks through his first three seasons."

The Patriots rank in the top ten in points allowed and boast an elite run defense. Milton Williams and Harold Landry have bolstered the line, while Joshua Farmer and Khyiris Tonga have seen significant snaps. The unit allows under 84 rushing yards per game, and no rusher has topped 50 yards this season. The secondary and pass rush have been less consistent, even with Christian Gonzalez returning and Marcus Jones emerging; Carlton Davis has underperformed through six weeks. The pass rush has cooled to 2.2 sacks per game, tied for 18th, with most pressure from Milton Williams and Christian Barmore. Adding an outside rusher like Kayvon Thibodeaux is suggested given his upside despite mixed production.

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