Patriots’ Top 4 Trade Deadline Needs to Monitor This Week

The New England Patriots have a tight window for trades, as the NFL trade deadline approaches on Tuesday, November 4 at 4:00 p.m. ET. With a strong record of 6-2 and leading the AFC East, the team finds itself in a favorable position to consider trades. The Patriots have the flexibility of ten picks in the upcoming NFL Draft, including multiple fourth, sixth, and seventh-round selections, giving them potential assets for trade negotiations.

Future-Oriented Trade Strategy

As the Patriots weigh their options, their strategy appears to lean toward long-term development rather than short-term fixes. NFL analyst Albert Breer noted that the organization aims to preserve its draft capital for future seasons (2026 and 2027) while addressing current roster needs. This suggests a preference for acquiring younger players, rather than older, one-year rental types.

Needs to Monitor Before the Trade Deadline

Here are the primary positions the Patriots should focus on leading up to the deadline:

• Running Back: The Patriots currently have only two running backs on the roster due to an injury. They may need to explore options for depth, especially given the limited availability of active players in this position. Potential targets include Breece Hall and backup options like Jerome Ford, Dameon Pierce, or Tyjae Spears.
• EDGE Rusher: While the team has solid starters, the depth is lacking. The trades could involve younger EDGE rushers such as Boye Mafe or Azeez Ojulari. Trading a player like Keion White for another young talent in this area could strengthen their roster.
• Tight End Coverage: The Patriots have struggled to cover opposing tight ends this season. Adding a linebacker like Logan Wilson, who is reportedly available, could resolve some coverage issues. If they trade Kyle Dugger, safety depth would become critical as well.
• Kick Returner: With kickoff return performance suffering post-injury to Antonio Gibson, the Patriots could benefit from acquiring a capable return specialist. Players like Jerome Ford or Dylan Laube may fill both running back and kick return roles, helping to elevate special teams performance.

Conclusion

The Patriots have a significant opportunity to enhance their roster in the coming week. With the NFL trade deadline approaching, they can strategically target key positions to continue strengthening their playoff push while maintaining a future-oriented approach.