With the 2025 NFL trade deadline long past, there has been an increased interest in what the New England Patriots might do during free agency next offseason, especially since they are already projected to have the most cap space to spend (again). Looking at the massive improvements they made to the roster this year, expectations are high, and fans hope they'll add even more firepower to the offense for Drake Maye.
That includes signing even more explosive wide receivers, despite just how good the receiving corps has been so far this year. However, if an intriguing name becomes available, fans don't want the door to be shut on potentially signing them, which could include George Pickens.
The once disgruntled Steelers receiver was traded to the Cowboys earlier this year and has increased his value over the last year of his rookie contract to the point of making himself the most sought-after pass catcher of next year's free agency class.
And while that's certainly good news for Pickens, who will surely be in for a hefty payday, it's not great news for the Patriots, if they were even remotely interested in inquiring about signing him next year.
The Patriots might already eliminate George Pickens from their free agency list months before the season ends
Because he has been on an absolute roll this season in Dallas, already recording 58 receptions for 908 yards and seven touchdowns in 10 games, it's beyond clear that Pickens will be the top name for receiver-needy teams to pursue during free agency next spring.
Although the Patriots might not be at the top of that list, they'll certainly be looking into their options, including at receiver, and Pickens would likely be among the list of names. And while they are expected to have the salary cap to afford his newly projected high salary, he might be crossed off before even getting to free agency.
It's not because they wouldn't need him or they couldn't afford him, but they have other positions that will need more upgrading than their receiving corps. Plus, there will be other names to consider that will be significantly cheaper, and based on the production we've seen from who is currently on the roster, that seems like the more sensible route.
That will only become more apparent if Kayshon Boutte, Stefon Diggs, and DeMario Douglas continue to play at a high level like they have. Mack Hollins could even be thrown into the mix and could receive an extension if he does, as well.
It seems more likely that they'll bank on who they have, or draft the talent they need, rather than spend the bulk of their cap space on a player like Pickens, no matter how much he could potentially bring to the offense. So it seems almost fair to assume they're out on Pickens before free agency is even a thought in their minds.