New England Patriots’ Potential Moves to Bolster Offense
The New England Patriots have made several key moves this offseason to strengthen their offense, particularly with the development of quarterback Drake Maye. In free agency, they added veteran wide receiver Stefon Diggs, who has six 1,000-yard seasons to his name, and Mack Hollins, who recorded five touchdown receptions for the Buffalo Bills in 2024. Additionally, in the 2025 NFL Draft, the team selected running back TreVeyon Henderson and Washington State product Kyle Williams, both of whom are expected to contribute significantly to the backfield and receiving corps.
Despite these additions, there is speculation that the Patriots may still be looking for one more major addition to their offensive lineup. This could come in the form of a potential trade for Washington Commanders star wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who has requested a trade during training camp. The reason behind his request is the lack of a new contract extension from the Commanders, which has left him seeking a better opportunity elsewhere.
If the Commanders decide to trade McLaurin, the Patriots could be a strong contender for his services. A potential pairing of McLaurin and Diggs would provide Maye with two of the most consistent and reliable receivers in the league, making the Patriots a legitimate threat in the AFC for the 2025 season. Moreover, the Patriots currently hold the most cap space in the NFL, which makes acquiring McLaurin financially feasible.
Potential Trade Packages for Terry McLaurin
There are several hypothetical trade scenarios that could entice the Commanders to part with McLaurin. Here are some possible trade packages:
Trade Package 1: A Second-Round Pick
In this scenario, the Patriots would receive Terry McLaurin in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick. Based on recent trades involving other top receivers, such as D.K. Metcalf and Davante Adams, a second- or third-round pick would be considered fair value for a player of McLaurin’s caliber. Given the Patriots’ ability to offer a long-term contract, they may not need to pay a high price for his services.
Trade Package 2: DeMario Douglas and a Third-Round Pick
Another option involves the Patriots sending wide receiver DeMario Douglas along with a 2026 third-round pick. Douglas, a 2023 sixth-round pick, has shown promise with 1,182 receiving yards and three touchdowns in his first two seasons. While he is not as established as McLaurin, he could serve as a valuable addition to the Commanders’ receiving core, especially if they are looking for a younger, developing talent.
Trade Package 3: Hunter Henry, Ja’Lynn Polk, and a Fourth-Round Pick
A more complex trade package could involve the Patriots sending tight end Hunter Henry, wide receiver Ja’Lynn Polk, and a 2026 fourth-round pick. Henry, a consistent performer with over six seasons of at least 500 receiving yards, would provide the Commanders with a reliable target in the passing game. Polk, a 2024 second-round pick, could benefit from a change of scenery and develop further under a different coaching staff.
Contract Projections for Terry McLaurin
McLaurin is set to enter free agency in March 2026, and there are rumors that he is seeking a contract similar to that of D.K. Metcalf, who signed a $33 million AAV deal with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Comparisons to other top receivers like Tyreek Hill and Mike Evans suggest that McLaurin could command a contract in the range of $29 million AAV over three years. This would place him among the highest-paid receivers in the league while balancing the financial risk associated with his age.
Patriots’ Cap Space and Financial Flexibility
According to Over the Cap, the Patriots currently have the most cap space in the NFL at $59,850,850. This gives them the flexibility to pursue high-value players like McLaurin while also managing their roster effectively. Other teams with significant cap space include the Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers, Arizona Cardinals, and Las Vegas Raiders.
In conclusion, the Patriots’ interest in acquiring Terry McLaurin could significantly enhance their offensive capabilities. With the right trade package and a long-term contract, McLaurin could become a cornerstone of the Patriots’ offense and help elevate the team’s prospects in the 2025 season.