Four receivers the Patriots could trade for this offseason

Receivers the Patriots should consider trading for this offseason

Tee Higgins

AGE: 24
CONTRACT: Fourth year of rookie deal
2022 STATS: 16 games – 74 receptions, 1,209 yards, seven touchdowns, 13.9 YPC
CAP SPACE IMPLICATIONS FOR 2023: Base salary – $1,794,562 | Cap hit – $2,763,978

Another young player making an impact in the league is Cincinnati Bengals’ Tee Higgins. At just 24 years old, he accomplished a second straight season of over 1,000 yards receiving, showing he could quickly become the Patriots’ WR1 for years to come if acquired.

As the Bengals currently stand, they have significant cap space to spend this offseason, projected to be over $43 million. But quarterback Joe Burrow will be entering the fourth year of his contract in 2023, and it’s assumed the Bengals will be extending him while also determining an extension for their WR1 in Ja’Marr Chase.

This leaves the door open for them to move on from Higgins for the right price.

It would likely cost the Patriots a first-round pick, similar to the A.J. Brown trade to the Eagles, which Belichick is not known for doing. But because Higgins is a young and impressive player, and the Patriots’ offense needs a big boost, the head coach may strongly consider making the trade.

Bengals’ details for trading Higgins this offseason before or after 6/1:
2023 Dead Cap: $969,416
2024 Dead Cap: $0

2023 Cap savings if Higgins is traded: $1,794,562

Cap space available for 2023: $43,919,058