Since the NFL released the 2026 schedule, it was clear that the Patriots were in for a much tougher ride than last season, especially with their first game a Super Bowl LX rematch against the Seahawks in Seattle.
Making matters worse, this season opens on a Wednesday night for the first time, giving the Patriots less time to prepare for one of the toughest battles of the upcoming season. Although the result of the game could be different, given that both rosters look much different than when they last met, it's still projected to be New England's first loss.
That might become even more of a sure thing if the latest prediction about the Seahawks pulling off a blockbuster trade comes to fruition.
Their offense took a major hit when star running back Kenneth Walker left the team for the Chiefs in free agency, and it would be fair to say they're in need of a massive upgrade in their backfield. That's what has them listed as a suitor for Saints' Alvin Kamara, who has been the subject of trade rumors over the past few months.
If they pull that off, it's hard to feel optimistic about the Patriots' chances.
The Seahawks could guarantee a win over the Patriots with one big trade
Now that some of the biggest rumored trades of the offseason have been made, there's a good chance the next blockbuster move will be for Kamara.
The Seahawks are a team on the shortlist for the 5-time Pro Bowler, which would be an absolute disaster for the Patriots and any sliver of a chance they might have to take down the Super Bowl champs on opening night.
Kamara might not be the player he once was, but he would still be a massive upgrade for Seattle's offense and help make Sam Darnold's job a lot easier. He would immediately test the Patriots' new look defense, especially without their best run stoppers like Khyiris Tonga, and it could quickly become a nightmare.
That's what makes the need for a game-wrecking pass rusher even more crucial for the Patriots to address before the season begins, and it will likely have to come via trade. Fortunately, they have a few options, and it shouldn't cost too much to get it done.
Otherwise, there might be more reason to be concerned about how they will fair in 2026.
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