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Latest A.J. Brown Report Might Rule Out This Move For Patriots
TL;DR
The New England Patriots are likely to trade for A.J. Brown after June 1, potentially altering their draft strategy. This move hinges on changes in cap implications at that time.
Key points
- Patriots likely to trade for A.J. Brown after June 1
- Cap implications change after June 1
- Potential shift in Patriots' draft strategy
New England Patriots
Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver A.J. Brown
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The New England Patriots are suddenly considered likely to trade for A.J. Brown after June 1, and it could change how the draft plays out.
Adam Schefter reported that the Patriots are likely to trade for Brown after June 1. That's when cap implications change for him. If that report is accurate and Brown is destined to join the Patriots, the Patriots may take a different approach to the draft than many have predicted.
The Patriots signed Romeo Doubs in the offseason, and if they add Brown, there is no reason to spend a premium draft pick on a receiver. Many experts have predicted the Patriots could select a receiver in the first or second round. However, those predictions came before Schefter's latest report.
The Patriots have other needs to address as well. If they feel like Brown is headed their way in the summer, they could invest in the pass rush and offensive line early in the draft.
The Patriots had just 35 sacks in the regular season last year and need some more juice in the pass rush. They lost K'Lavon Chaisson, but signed Dre-Mont Jones. Both players had similar production last year, so they have not really improved the pass rush this offseason.
Morgan Moses could retire soon, and the Patriots need to have a plan to replace him. They could spend a first-round pick on a right tackle in hopes of having him take over next year. In the short-term, it would give them some much-needed offensive line depth.
Ultimately, if the Patriots plan on trading for Brown after June 1, then fans can rule out the team taking a wide receiver early in the draft. If they do take a receiver on Day 1 or 2, then it may indicate that a Brown trade will not happen.
More NFL: Adam Schefter Reports Patriots 'Likely' To Land A.J. Brown In Major Trade Update
Q&A
What are the cap implications for A.J. Brown after June 1?
After June 1, the cap implications for A.J. Brown change, making it more feasible for the Patriots to trade for him.
How might A.J. Brown's trade affect the Patriots' draft strategy?
If A.J. Brown joins the Patriots, it could lead them to adopt a different approach in the draft than previously anticipated.
Who reported that the Patriots are likely to trade for A.J. Brown?
Adam Schefter reported that the New England Patriots are likely to trade for A.J. Brown after June 1.