The New England Patriots are trending in the right direction, but health is crucial to succeeding in this league, and they've been pretty banged up. They were thin before the season started, and that hasn't improved much after eight weeks.
That's especially true of their wide receiver corps. A.J. Brown has missed most of the season, Romeo Doubs is on Injured Reserve, and Mack Hollins will return shortly from an IR stint of his own. Now Hunter Henry is also hurt, potentially leaving them with one fewer pass-catcher.
That's why, even if his salary might be tough to accommodate, the Patriots should keep an eye on Calvin Ridley. He's no longer in his prime, but he might be the most viable trade target. The Tennessee Titans just want a Day 3 pick for his services.
The New England Patriots should take their chances with Calvin Ridley
Let's get the negative out of the way first. Yes, Ridley is signed through 2027 and has a $29.75 million cap hit for next season. Yes, he's 32, and he's coming off an injury-riddled season. Those are all valid factors to consider and maybe even steer clear of him.
That said, beggars can't be choosers. When healthy, the Patriots have a stacked wide receiver room, but midway through the season, they haven't been all healthy at the same time. Also, Efton Chism III, DeMario Douglas, and Kyle Williams are all solid depth pieces, but the Pats don't seem to trust them enough.
So why not make a run at a physical pass catcher who's made a living out of creating separation and making explosive plays? Moreover, he might be the Patriots' only realistic trade target while everyone else focuses on Josh Downs, Jerry Jeudy, or Brian Thomas Jr.
The Pats can always restructure his contract. He'd gladly take some cash up front just to get an opportunity to leave the Titans and play for a contender for a change. After just six receptions for 91 yards in seven games, he must be itching to prove he still has it.
Admittedly, this isn't ideal, but it is what it is. Even if he's not a star anymore, he would give this team another big-play specialist, since they don't want to give Kyle Williams a long leash. For a late-Day 3 pick, that's pretty much as good as it gets.
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