Patriots Linked to Trade That Could Reshape the AFC Landscape
As the 2025 offseason began, many Patriots fans were hopeful the team’s new leadership would make a bold move to acquire a top-tier wide receiver. That hope largely centered around the possibility of a blockbuster trade, and even with the signing of veteran receiver Stefon Diggs, that need still seems to exist.
While adding Diggs—formerly of the Bills—was a significant move, there’s a growing sense that the Patriots’ receiving corps could use even more firepower. Reports have already surfaced that the team made an attempt to trade for Rashod Bateman. Now, speculation suggests they could turn their attention to another standout wide receiver: Terry McLaurin.
Given the team’s reported interest in Bateman and a strong pursuit of Chris Godwin (reportedly at $30 million per year), it’s clear New England is willing to invest both financially and through the draft to secure elite offensive talent. With McLaurin possibly becoming available, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has floated a trade scenario that could be hard for the Patriots to pass up.
A McLaurin Trade Would Be a Major Boost for Drake Maye
With around $60 million in salary cap space still available, it’s reasonable to believe that head coach Mike Vrabel and the front office would seriously consider making a move if the opportunity arose. Should McLaurin become open to a trade, it would be no surprise to see New England reaching out to Washington Commanders GM Adam Peters—despite the likely high cost.
Based on recent wide receiver trades, Knox suggests the Patriots could offer their 2026 second-round pick along with tight end Austin Hooper to bring McLaurin to Foxborough. This would mirror other big-name WR trades, such as the Steelers’ deal for DK Metcalf.
Proposed Trade:
- Patriots Receive: WR Terry McLaurin
- Commanders Receive: 2026 second-round pick, TE Austin Hooper
Although just a hypothetical deal, it seems like a reasonable package to land a receiver of McLaurin’s caliber. Even if it required an extra mid-to-late-round pick, it would still be a worthwhile investment for New England.
Knox argues that the trade makes even more sense when considering the uncertainty around Stefon Diggs’ health and the consistency McLaurin brings to the table. Diggs is recovering from a torn ACL and has already drawn negative attention off the field. Other receivers like Mack Hollins have potential but aren’t proven primary options.
McLaurin, on the other hand, has shown he can thrive with a young quarterback. While his stats last season weren’t career-highs, his efficiency was notable—posting a 133.0 QB rating when targeted by Jayden Daniels.
Knox also points out that the Commanders have a need at tight end. With veteran Zach Ertz nearing the end of his career and sophomore Ben Sinnott still unproven, acquiring a steady veteran like Hooper could fill a key roster gap.
Although losing Hooper might sting for the Patriots, the team still has Hunter Henry as the starter, and they’re hopeful Jaheim Bell will step up as a viable second option. There’s also speculation that offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels could implement a fullback, potentially lessening the need for tight end depth.
In the end, acquiring a player like McLaurin might require difficult choices, but it’s a trade the Patriots should strongly consider. If Washington makes him available in the near future, New England could be in a prime position to strike.
For now, Patriots fans can only imagine what McLaurin could do in a New England uniform—and hope the front office makes it a reality soon.
