Will the New England Patriots make any major additions this offseason?
ESPN's Mike Reiss, one of the most well-connected insiders covering the Patriots, believes a big move could be on the horizon. However, Reiss believes a big-time trade is more likely than a significant free agency signing.
"So, here's my hot take," Reiss said this week at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. " ... If there's a big splash, it wouldn't be free agency. It'd be more of a trade. You know, that idea of, you never know what another team is willing to move on from a player for. And, I would say, I don't see the Patriots doing a Micah Parsons or a Sauce Gardner-type trade. They're not giving up two (first-round picks) and a big contract.
"But, if a team has an attractive player that -- and I don't know if Quinnen Williams would be that level -- but, like, a (first-round pick) and maybe something else..."
I'm here for a @MikeReiss 🔥hot take🔥 all day, every day.
'Tis the season!
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— Michael Rodnick (@MJRodnick) February 26, 2026
So, what kind of trade could take place?
Reiss floated Dallas Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams, an interesting suggestion given Christian Barmore's seemingly uncertain future in New England. And it wouldn't be surprising to see Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel target more defensive talent despite prioritizing that side of the ball last offseason.
However, many believe the Patriots instead could pursue deals for offensive firepower, perhaps in the form of Philadelphia Eagles receiver A.J. Brown. Of course, such offseason strategies don't need to be mutually exclusive.
One thing's for sure: Following a surprising Super Bowl appearance, the Patriots will be among the most talked-about teams this offseason.
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