NFL insider shuts down possibility of Patriots making this blockbuster trade

Leading up to and during the recent draft, there was a lot of talk about the Patriots making a blockbuster trade for a top-name wide receiver that the team has needed for several years. A few names dominated the rumors, mainly Brandon Aiyuk and Tee Higgins, only for Deebo Samuel to be thrown into the mix once the draft began.

Because of the names involved in the conversation, it was assumed if the Patriots made a move to get a trade done it would come during Rounds 2 or 3, which is what the consensus believes was what each receiver would be valued at.

But a deal never got done and based on what John Lynch said about not entertaining offers for Aiyuk or Samuel, it seemed to confirm the Patriots were never really interested in making a move for a receiver anyway.

Perhaps that's why they decided to double-dip at the position by selecting Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, adding to a receiving corps led by Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, and K.J. Osborn. But because there's still a void with no clear WR1, speculation suggested a trade may come post-draft.

Unfortunately, according to an NFL insider, that doesn't look to be in the cards either.

Patriots aren't believed to make a big move for a receiver ahead of 2024 season

While appearing on NBC Sports Boston's "Arbella Early Edition" last week, Albert Breer shared it's unlikely that New England will make a trade now that the draft has concluded. He listed the recent contracts of A.J. Brown and Amon-Ra St. Brown as a basis for why they won't.

"I would say it's unlikely. I think what made things more difficult was the contracts that were signed by Amon Ra St. Brown, $28 million a year -- A.J. Brown, $32 million a year -- you're not just talking about draft pick compensation now, you're talking about something on the other end of it, which is a massive, massive contract."

Although knowing they'd have to pay one of the receivers a hefty contract could deter them from wanting to pursue a trade, the Patriots have the means now and next year to afford it. If they really want to acquire a clear WR1, then it has to be done via trade, and with that comes the responsibility of knowing you'll have to pay them.

It's that simple.

Regarding whether or not Aiyuk or Samuel will be available now or in the future, Breer believes neither will be going anywhere but does note that Samuel appears to be more on the chopping block than his current teammate.

"I think it's more likely those guys end up sticking on their team. I actually would say right now, just talking to some people out there, I'd say Deebo Samuel is much more available than Brandon Aiyuk right now."

The insider didn't speak about Higgins' potential availability, though, which is a name the Patriots will need to pay attention to. He's set to play under a franchise tag in 2024 and will be a free agent in 2025, which looks to be the case. The latest reports claim extension talks continue to stall between the Bengals and the receiver.

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