The Patriots have taken an aggressive approach to free agency, recognizing the many areas where their team is lacking and taking steps to address them. By signing Pro Football Focus’s top free agents at defensive tackle, Milton Williams (No. 1), and cornerback, Carlton Davis III (No. 5), they are clearly targeting the best talent available. Furthermore, they have added Harold Landry III, a sack-producing edge rusher from Boston College, to reinforce a position that struggled with both talent and sacks in 2024. While more work is needed, Landry is a solid first step.
The Patriots have yet to add any left tackles, which remains one of their biggest needs, although they strengthened their offensive line by signing veteran right tackle Morgan Moses from the Jets. Other additions include 31-year-old wide receiver Mack Hollins from the Buffalo Bills, who is expected to serve as the third receiver. However, the top two receiver spots are still open in free agency, leaving a gap that the Patriots need to address. While trades are a possibility, the draft seems like the most probable avenue to fill these positions. Let’s explore how they might approach this in late April.
The Patriots’ best move to fill the No. 1 wide receiver spot might be selecting Travis Hunter from Colorado. Hunter, a dual-threat player, excels at both wide receiver and cornerback, with New England likely focusing on his receiving skills. While some believe Hunter could end up with the Patriots, it’s still uncertain. Three teams will need to pass on this highly talented Heisman Trophy winner, and it’s unlikely they’ll all overlook him. Trading up to secure his selection is a possibility, but given the Patriots’ many needs and limited high picks, it’s a tough call. If the Patriots can trade without sacrificing more than two of their four premium picks (in the first three rounds), it could be worth the effort. Using 2026 draft picks to make the move is a better strategy, as sending out 2025 high picks might not be the most advantageous for the team.
