The New England Patriots are in a troublesome spot, and with the commerce deadline now solely two weeks away the staff might quickly conclude it’s finest to sit up for the longer term.
That means a number of veterans of their contract years might doubtlessly be moved, and a minimum of one acknowledged on Wednesday they’ve thought of the chance they may very well be traded within the weeks forward.
“Definitely will be on my mind, but just being ready for whatever man,” mentioned large receiver Kendrick Bourne. “I want to be here, I love to be here, but if there are other plans then it is what it is.”
Bourne is amongst plenty of Patriots approaching free company who can be coveted on the commerce market, and the staff might use them to load up on draft picks and higher place themselves for 2024 and past.
Others in an identical boat embrace linebackers Josh Uche and Anfernee Jennings, tight ends Hunter Henry and Mike Gesicki, offensive linemen Trent Brown and Mike Onwenu, working again Ezekiel Elliot, defensive backs Jalen Mills and Kyle Dugger, and extra.
Through the primary six video games Bourne has been New England’s main receiver, rating first on the staff in catches (28), targets (44) and receiving yards (307) whereas tying for the staff lead in receiving touchdowns (3).
It’s not exhausting to think about a playoff contender bringing in Bourne to assist bolster their passing offense, and moreover the draft return the transfer would additionally open extra taking part in time for rookies Demario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte.
The prospect of turning into commerce deadline sellers doesn’t simply have an effect on the gamers most definitely to be moved, but additionally their teammates who would conceivably be left behind. Those requested Wednesday mentioned it’s not one thing they’ve given any thought however they’ll be prepared it doesn’t matter what occurs.
“I’m not focused on that right now. Honestly, just really focusing on coming together as a team during tough times and seeing how we respond, seeing how I respond,” mentioned quarterback Mac Jones. “I’m definitely excited for the challenge, looking at it in the eyes and taking it head on.”
“No, right now we’re just focused on Buffalo. What happens, happens. It’s just part of the game, and right now we’re here,” mentioned linebacker Jahlani Tavai. “It’s a big week for us, divisional game, and they’ve got a really good offense that we’re sure we’re prepared for.”
Bill Belichick took an identical tack when requested if his philosophy will change forward of the commerce deadline relying on the staff’s document.
“Right now, I’m just thinking about Buffalo,” Belichick mentioned Wednesday morning.
If the Patriots pull the upset this weekend in opposition to Buffalo or the next weekend in opposition to Miami perhaps the staff might choose to remain the course, however New England shall be large underdogs in each video games and a 1-7 begin can be a particularly tough gap to climb out of.
For now the Patriots gamers don’t plan on letting the commerce deadline impact their day-to-day routine, however with every week that goes by with out one other win the looming prospect of a hearth sale will turn out to be harder to disregard.
“I’m just focusing every day on what I’ve got to do and on the task at hand,” Bourne mentioned. “I think I’m in a good place so whatever happens happens and just focusing on the day by day and letting it play out.”
Source: www.bostonherald.com