The 2025 NFL trade deadline is right around the corner, and just like it has been for many years now, the Patriots look to be more in the position of trading for a player rather than trading anyone from their roster away. They have a few holes they could fill if they believe they can remain competitive for the rest of the season, but that's now how some insiders view their immediate future.
In fact, NFL insider Adam Schefter compiled a list of players he believes will be on the trade market before the deadline, which includes three current Patriots defenders: S Kyle Dugger, LB Anfernee Jennings, and DE Keion White.
Given their lack of utilization in six games so far and their lackluster performance when they are on the field, it makes sense that they might be traded. However, there is a big problem with that sentiment.
NFL Trade Deadline Candidates, per @AdamSchefter. 👀 pic.twitter.com/in57l4yHhA
— The GOAT House (@GoatHouseNFL) October 12, 2025
If the Patriots dangle these three players to other teams before the deadline, it seems unlikely that many will be calling about getting them to their roster.
The Patriots are in a weird position with their roster going into the trade deadline
Of the three players, Dugger would presumably be the most desirable, given his successful background, and teams have previously expressed interest in acquiring him, even as recently as this past offseason.
However, he hasn't been on the field much so far this season, and what we saw from his last week in Jaylinn Hawkins' place was nothing that would have teams knocking the door down to get a deal done, so it's difficult to believe that will change over the next few weeks.
The same could presumably be said about Jennings and White, both of whom were considered trade candidates leading up to the start of this season, just like Dugger. Obviously, none of them were moved, but they haven't helped their cases much with unimpressive performance on the field.
Jennings has had a few moments that certainly stood out, just not enough to make him a valuable part of the Patriots' defense. White has struggled over the last two years, so there was some belief that the new regime could bring out the best in him, but we're still waiting to see that.
With all of this knowledge, it's hard to imagine other teams believe they can make magic with any of these players on their roster. There's certainly a chance, but it seems fair to assume that the Patriots wouldn't receive much in return if they did trade Dugger, Jennings, or White.