The [New England Patriots](https://nesn.com/new-england-patriots) have to feel like they have a shot at the Super Bowl this season, as long as they keep getting better week in and week out.
There's a lot to like about what the Patriots have done offensively in certain moments over the past couple of weeks, but that's still the biggest question that has to be answered.
If the Patriots can land a guy who can come in and be a legitimate offensive threat for them, they have to feel very good about what they'll be able to do in the second half of the season. However, the latest report suggests that it might not be as likely as we're all hoping for.
“First, they've spent a significant amount of cash recently. Like it or not, they're operating on a budget, and Robert Kraft has told us previously that they are essentially a cash-to-cap team over a three-year period. After serious expenditures each of the last two offseasons, a big extension for Christian Gonzalez and an upcoming extension for Drake Maye... adding a player worth millions for the remainder of the season might not be in the cards.
“Second, they gave up a significant draft asset in dealing for A.J. Brown, which may make it more difficult for them to part with a draft choice of value in a deadline deal,” [Phil Perry wrote](https://www.nbcsportsboston.com/nfl/new-england-patriots/mailbag-trade-deadline-drake-maye-aj-brown/810027/).
Perry brings up some fair points, especially about the extensions and how much Drake Maye will eventually cost. It's also fair to mention that the A.J. Brown trade wasn't cheap in terms of assets. However, the Patriots still have some more assets that could be moved. Whether that ends up being for a wide receiver or an edge rusher, the two biggest needs I see, remains to be seen.
If not, this team isn't going to be as good as it can be, and in a way, that's a bit concerning.
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