New England Patriots - NESN.com
The 4-2 Patriots suddenly look like buyers ahead of the Nov. 4 trade deadline. And though New England has major needs on both sides of the ball, you could argue that running back is the position that must be addressed above all others.
So, how does Breece Hall sound? After all, ESPN Jets insider Rich Cimini recently identified the fourth-year running back as a potential trade candidate.
It’s hard to envision New York trading one of its best players to any team within the AFC East, especially the Patriots. However, that didn’t stop ESPN’s Mike Reiss from floating the idea during Tuesday’s episode of 98.5 The Sports Hub’s “Zolak & Bertrand” show.
“With the trade deadline a few weeks away … running back is the one position to me, call around the league,” Reiss said. ” … You are one injury away from being in a very low-leverage position. How about Breece Hall of the Jets? 0-6 team, last year of his contract.”
Reiss then discussed the feedback he’s received on the Jets’ potential asking price for Hall. Reiss indicated the Patriots likely would need to overpay to woo a divisional rival.
“I thought it would’ve been a third-round pick, and people told me I was crazy,” Reiss said. “A running back on an expiring deal would not be as high as a third-round pick. … (But) to trade him in the division, you might need to give up a (third-round pick). … But whether it’s Breee Hall or someone else, my point is I think they need to be proactive.”
The Patriots entered the season with enviable running back depth, but now are alarmingly thin following Antonio Gibson’s season-ending ACL tear.
Rhamondre Stevenson remains the top option but could be one fumble away from a permanent benching. The veteran also appears to be running tentatively amid his renewed fumbling woes.
Rookie TreVeyon Henderson still could deliver on his immense preseason promise, but the second-round pick was a significant disappointment in the first six games.
New England also has second-year pro Terrell Jennings on its practice squad and could promote him to the 53-man roster in the near future.
With all that said, the Patriots’ offensive line must shoulder some of the blame for the struggles of the running game. New England has the internal options necessary, from running backs to O-linemen, to get the running game on track.
Nevertheless, an upgrade might be necessary, and Hall might be the best option available at the trade deadline.
