The New England Patriots have been a hot topic of conversation surrounding wide receivers this offseason, popping up as a team often looking to add a weapon through free agency or trade talks.
So far, additions to their wide receiver room have included Stefon Diggs, Mack Hollins, and 2025 third-round pick Kyle Williams.
It was reported that an offer averaging $30 million per year for multiple years was turned down by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' Chris Godwin, who instead returned to the team that drafted him.
Now, Jeremy Fowler at ESPN is reporting that the Patriots also previously tried to land a wide receiver from the AFC North.
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) runs with the ball in front of New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones (31) during the second half at Gillette Stadium.
Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Rashod Bateman (7) runs with the ball in front of New England Patriots cornerback Jonathan Jones (31) during the second half at Gillette Stadium.
Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
Fowler says that Baltimore Ravens wideout Rashod Bateman was permitted to seek a trade after requesting an extension from the team earlier this year. Bateman had discussions with the New England Patriots and others, so much so that the Ravens ultimately decided to extend the 25-year-old.
Other teams named in the trade talks with Bateman were the Dallas Cowboys and Green Bay Packers.
Bateman racked up 756 yards and nine touchdowns on 45 grabs last season, good for nearly 17 yards per catch.
Fowler added that the interest from other teams ultimately led to Baltimore extending the University of Minnesota product last week on a deal worth three years and $36.75 million.
With DeMario Douglas, Kayshon Boutte, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Javon Baker rounding out the wide receiver room with Diggs and Hollins, the Patriots may end up being just about set on new additions.