The Patriots are in a good position this offseason to make some big moves for their roster, whether by free agent signings or blockbuster trades. They have the cap space to allow some flashy decisions that could drastically improve their roster, plus their draft positioning puts them in good standing to pull off a draft day trade or two for desirable players.
That will inevitably put a lot of pressure on the new regime led by Mike Vrabel to deliver, given how much the roster needs improvement and how little Jerod Mayo and Co. did with similar factors during last offseason.
But before free agency even begins, Browns star pass rusher Myles Garrett is already making headlines by requesting a trade on Monday. The reason for his request is unknown, and Cleveland is unwilling to make it happen at this time, but it puts a big target on Garrett's back as a potential trade option for New England.
Myles Garrett has requested a trade.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 3, 2025
His statement: pic.twitter.com/yx5Q9Exa0V
Read More: New rumor steamrolls Patriots' expected approach to 2025 free agency
The Patriots should (at least) inquire about Myles Garrett, even if it leads to nothing
In theory, the Patriots landing a player of Garrett's caliber is a franchise-altering move that would immediately put their defense back on the map. It could also make them a contender in short order while allowing them to use their cap space and No. 4 pick on more offensive help instead.
The problem with that scenario, though, is that they'll likely not have the chance to make it that far.
Besides the Browns having made it very clear they have no intention of trading their former first-rounder, which could obviously change at some point, Garrett made it clear in his statement that he wants to go to a team that is on path to winning and making a run at the Super Bowl, neither of which the Patriots are close to.
ESPN's Field Yates further detailed what Garrett is likely looking for in his next team, emphasizing that desire to win even more.
Some Myles Garrett thoughts...
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) February 3, 2025
- Garrett is the caliber of player that all 31 NFL teams at least have a conversation about. He's 29, plays a premium position, checks off every box. Not that all 31 teams would be legitimate suitors, but every team is at least pondering what a…
The Patriots aren't exactly considered one of those teams, especially since they'll have a new head coach and staff and a second-year quarterback in the mix. Because of the type of player Garrett is, he will have almost every team in the league calling Cleveland about getting a deal done, which means teams like the Bills, Chiefs, Eagles and Ravens will likely be on the phone at one point or another, all of which are in better position to reap success sooner than New England.
It feels like the Patriots being remotely considered is a fantasy at this point, as they are not the Patriots of old, unfortunately. But there's also a chance this is Garrett just bluffing, hoping for a bigger contract or for the team to put in more effort to put together a winning team, similar to what other star players have done in the past.
In that case, it's good that the Patriots aren't in a position to be a serious contender for Garrett.