Mailbag: Could New England Patriots Trade Up? | Arizona Cardinals Deal?

In this episode of Locked On Patriots, host Nick Cattles tackles a series of mailbag questions centered on the New England Patriots' draft strategy, particularly focusing on the possibility of trading up in the first round and potential trades involving players like AJ Brown. The discussion explores the feasibility of moving up from the 31st pick, analyzing trade dynamics with teams like Houston, Kansas City, and Miami, and evaluating the cost of moving up using the Rich Hill trade value chart. The hosts express skepticism about giving up high-value picks like a second-round selection unless the target player is a true difference-maker. They also examine the Patriots' pre-draft visit patterns, noting that nearly half of their 2024–2025 draft picks had top-30 visits, though the relevance of such visits as a strategic tool remains questionable. The episode further delves into positional needs—right guard, outside cornerback, linebacker, edge, and interior defensive line—and discusses potential trade targets like Kayvon Thibodeau, Devontae Adams, and Kyle Pitts. Finally, the hosts assess the development of Drake May in his second season under Josh McDaniel, predicting improvement both from the quarterback’s growth and from a better supporting cast. Key takeaways include: the Patriots are unlikely to trade up for a receiver unless the player is a clear difference-maker and the price is reasonable; trading second-round picks for a top-25 selection is more plausible than giving up a first-rounder; pre-draft visits may be more about due diligence than deception; and the team’s long-term rebuilding effort hinges on drafting well and making smart, cost-effective upgrades. The episode ends with a reminder to join the Everydayer Club for ad-free content and exclusive fan access.