Patriots Add All-Pro WR in Latest Mock Draft
The New England Patriots are still in need of another dynamic receiver, and a recent mock draft has them addressing that need.
The Patriots have been busy this offseason, overhauling their roster. They brought in several defensive stars during the first wave of free agency and later added top wide receiver Stefon Diggs on a three-year contract in the second wave.
Despite Diggs’ arrival, the Patriots still need another receiver for the outside, as Diggs is expected to primarily play in the slot.
In his latest mock draft, ESPN’s Bill Barnwell took a unique approach by having every pick traded. For the Patriots, Barnwell suggests a trade with the San Francisco 49ers, allowing New England to move up in the first round and land Brandon Aiyuk.
“In a draft with few elite receiving prospects, the Patriots could look to jump ahead and pair quarterback Drake Maye with a new weapon alongside Diggs,” Barnwell wrote. “They reportedly showed interest in Aiyuk last year, and although he signed an extension with the 49ers, rumors about his availability have persisted this spring. Trading Aiyuk would cost the 49ers only about $7.2 million in cap space, which is manageable. This move would also free up money and future cap space as they prepare for a more expensive Brock Purdy era. San Francisco has enough offensive talent with players like Jauan Jennings, Ricky Pearsall, George Kittle, and Christian McCaffrey.”
Aiyuk has been the subject of trade rumors for over a year. Last summer, the 49ers and Pittsburgh Steelers went back and forth until San Francisco eventually agreed to meet his contract demands. However, they are now reportedly open to trading the star receiver again, even as he recovers from a torn ACL.
Aiyuk has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2022 and 2023, earning Second-Team All-Pro honors in the latter year. He has recorded 294 career receptions, 25 touchdowns, and 4,305 yards over five seasons.
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