Patriots mailbag: What to expect at the trade deadline?
Pats Pulpit • • sports
Key Points:
- The New England Patriots are unlikely to make major moves at the trade deadline due to significant offseason investments in wide receivers and offensive guards, though minor depth additions could occur, particularly for run-stuffing defensive tackle or blocking tight end positions.
- The Patriots may target experienced nose tackles like Grover Stewart or Dalvin Tomlinson to improve run defense, as current players like Cory Durden have been inconsistent in that role.
- Backup offensive linemen such as Ben Brown, Matt Pryor, and Walter Rouse have shown promising performances, with Rouse standing out as a potential reliable backup or spot starter despite needing to improve awareness.
- Adding a third linebacker capable of playing base defense could help the Patriots counter heavy personnel groupings, addressing weaknesses against these formations due to current personnel limitations.
- Regarding injured reserve return designations, Alijah Vera-Tucker, Mack Hollins, Romeo Doubs, and Mike Onwenu are expected to return, with Reggie Gilliam's status uncertain; the team has limited remaining designations for the regular season but would gain more if they make the playoffs.
