Two Receivers Patriots Could Trade For If A.J. Brown Deal Never Happens

Philadelphia Eagles Wide Receiver A.J. Brown

Two Receivers Patriots Could Trade For If A.J. Brown Deal Never Happens originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New England Patriots have reportedly been showing interest in A.J. Brown this offseason, but who should they target if they cannot land him?

If the Patriots are truly interested in adding another receiver after signing Romeo Doubs, they could do so in the draft. However, the trade market is an interesting place when it comes to receivers. Brown is obviously the top name being floated in rumors, but that does not mean there are not other talented options. Here are two players the Patriots could call about if they realize Brown is not going to get dealt.

Marvin Harrison Jr.

Harrison has not lived up to lofty expectations in his first two years in the NFL. However, quarterback play has certainly played a role. Last season, Harrison actually looked more like the version of himself that was drafted at No. 4 overall in the NFL Draft. He was playing faster and making plays, but was only able to play in 12 games.

Even though Harrison has not played like the generational receiver some thought he was, he is still a talented player who could use a change of scenery. The Arizona Cardinals are in a rebuild, and right now, they do not have a franchise quarterback. They could look to deal Harrison for picks to help them acquire more young talent.

Harrison qualifies as young talent, but with a new head coach in town, it's not uncommon to see players from the old regime get moved. Harrison could put up monster numbers playing with an MVP candidate like Drake Maye, after spending the last two seasons playing with Kyler Murray and Jacoby Brissett.

D.K. Metcalf

If the Patriots cannot land Brown, his friend and college teammate Metcalf would be a great consolation prize. What happens with Metcalf is likely linked directly to what happens with Aaron Rodgers. If Rodgers returns, the Patriots will likely go all in one last time with Rodgers, Metcalf and Michael Pittman Jr.

However, if Rodgers retires, the Steelers could jump-start their rebuild by trading Metcalf to a contender for picks. Metcalf's salary guarantee for next season was voided thanks to his suspension last season. He still has a nice chunk of change remaining on his deal, but he is a very talented receiver who could be of great use to the Patriots. They need a target of his size and ability to pressure defenses down the field. He, Doubs and Maye could be a phenomenal trio.

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