Why it makes sense for Patriots to pursue a Brandon Aiyuk trade

Why it makes sense for Patriots to pursue a Brandon Aiyuk trade originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston

One of the most talented wide receivers in the NFL is available on the trade market, and the New England Patriots are reportedly in the mix.

The six-time Super Bowl champions have many weaknesses on their roster. You could make a strong case they have more glaring needs than wide receiver. Left tackle immediately comes to mind. But it’s painfully obvious that this team lacks true difference-makers on offense — players who keep opposing defensive coordinators up at night.

The opportunities to acquire these kinds of stars are rare, so when you have a chance to get one, it’s often foolish not to at least try.

And in Aiyuk’s case, it sounds like the Patriots are giving this pursuit a strong effort. The Patriots, Cleveland Browns and Pittsburgh Steelers are among the teams in the mix for Aiyuk, per multiple reports, although it’s unknown if any of those teams will be able to land the veteran wideout. Aiyuk wants a new contract, and if he’s unwilling to sign long term with a particular team, it’s going to be tough for that franchise to complete a trade.

The Patriots are one of the few teams able to offer Aiyuk the high salary he wants. They still have around $43 million in salary cap space, per OverTheCap, which is the second-most of any team.

In the latest episode of the Patriots Talk Podcast, our Patriots insider Phil Perry explained why New England should use its financial flexibility to surround rookie quarterback Drake Maye with expensive players at important positions, primarily wide receiver and left tackle.

🔊 Patriots Talk: What does Patriots’ hot pursuit of Aiyuk say about team’s direction? | Listen & Subscribe | Watch on YouTube

“You have these different tools with which to build your team,” Perry said. “One is that 2025 first-round pick. One is all of this money you’re still able to spend because you’re not paying big dollars to a quarterback, a wide…

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Author : NBC Sports Boston

Publish date : 2024-08-07 00:08:12

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