The Patriots are in a unique situation as they prepare for training camp, given the amount of cap space they still need to utilize in 2025. That means they could still add some top-quality free agents that might remain available, or even trade for a big-time star, as the likes of Bengals' pass rusher Trey Hendrickson, Commanders' receiver Terry McLaurin, and Steelers' sack artist T.J. Watt make headlines with their holdouts.
Mike Vrabel has already stated that they are closely monitoring the developments around the league, particularly with unraveling contract situations, essentially leaving the door open for the team to make a blockbuster move if deemed worthy. And based on the names that could become available, there is a lot of hype amongst the fans about them all, but especially Watt.
The 30-year-old has been a dominating force on Pittsburgh's defensive line, making it almost unfathomable that they wouldn't be willing to give him the contract he deserves.
But that means a team like the Patriots can reach out regarding his availability, which they might have already done, according to NFL insider Adam Schefter.
Sources: In recent weeks, multiple teams have been discussing whether they can trade for Steelers’ standout T.J. Watt, who skipped the team’s most recent minicamp. Pittsburgh hasn’t shown any willingness to deal Watt so far, but he’s unhappy with his contractual situation and… pic.twitter.com/iBh1DJr4uD
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 30, 2025
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While Schefter doesn't name-drop New England specifically, it's fair to assume Vrabel and Co. have been on the phone to be updated about the pending situation with Watt. They have the money to afford the trade, too, and it could be worth it to make the move.
It wouldn't be surprising if the Patriots go all-in on trading for T.J. Watt
For some fans, Watt is not the most ideal candidate due to his age, as he will turn 31 during the upcoming season. The same can be said about Hendrickson, but the idea of passing up an opportunity to add an elite pass rusher to the upgraded defensive line is difficult to argue against, especially since that has been a weakness of the Patriots' team in recent years.
Getting a deal done wouldn't be cheap, which is also a valid concern for fans. The assumption is that the Steelers would want a high draft pick; some even suggest a first-round pick or even a second-round pick. That is something the Patriots could afford to give up, as they might use that selection on a defensive end in next year's draft anyway.
A first-round pick would be a bit risky, based on the projections in 2026 mock drafts, which show the Patriots having a top-10 pick, so that might not be the smartest move. However, that could force Pittsburgh to accept a second-round pick and players in return, which Vrabel might be willing to part with.
It all depends on whether the Steelers will be genuinely willing to trade Watt if they are unable to reach an agreement with him. Over the years, teams have tried to hold firm with their resistance to offering a hefty contract, resulting in players either holding out during the regular season or eventually signing the extension offered.
It's more rare for the team to cave and give the player what they want, but someone of Watt's caliber might warrant that, especially since the organization has repeatedly stated they want him to be a Steeler for life.
Regardless of what eventually happens, it's smart for Vrabel and Co. to inquire and kick the tires on the situation, trying to determine what it would take to get a deal done, even if Watt is never actually traded. It would show that the new regime is willing to do what it takes to assemble a dominant team, putting the Patriots back on track, and that's something no fan can be upset about after what they've witnessed over the last five years.
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