Patriots' next obvious move is a trade fans are finally asking for

"The decision to release Stefon Diggs just one year into his contract made many believe that Mike Vrabel and Eliot Wolf had something up their sleeves the second the legal tampering window opened on Monday afternoon. The thought was they were going to pursue Alec Pierce heavily, and all reports suggested that, only for him to re-sign with the Colts for less than what other teams offered."

"Because rumors have suggested the Eagles turned down the Patriots' offer for Brown, which included a first-round pick, there's a chance they won't be able to convince them to move the wide receiver is a good idea. If that's the inevitable outcome, then looking toward a young player entering just his third season might be the best decision, especially after his impressive rookie season and what that could add to the Patriots' offense."

"His 2025 season was mostly forgettable compared to that year, as he logged just 48 receptions for 707 yards and and two touchdowns compared to 87 catches for 1,282 yards and 10 scores the year before. However, the Jaguars have been far from a stable franchise, so it's hard to completely blame Thomas for a down year."

The Patriots released Stefon Diggs after one year, signaling potential moves in the receiver market. They pursued Alec Pierce during free agency but he re-signed with the Colts. The team also missed out on Mike Evans and other available options like Romeo Doubs and Jauan Jennings. Unable to acquire AJ Brown from the Eagles despite offering a first-round pick, the Patriots are now considering Brian Thomas Jr., a 23-year-old receiver from the Jaguars. Despite a down 2025 season with 48 receptions for 707 yards and two touchdowns, Thomas showed promise in his rookie year with 87 catches for 1,282 yards and 10 scores. The Jaguars' organizational instability may have contributed to his decline.

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