New England Patriots - NESN.com
The New England Patriots may consider trading for several positions before the Nov. 4 trade deadline.
New England could bolster its explosive offense by adding a running back or wide receiver, but it should prioritize addressing to its defense.
NFL.com’s Kevin Patra believes New England should make adding a pass rusher its top priority.
“The Patriots continue to romp over less-than opponents,” Patra wrote on Tuesday. “Deadline upgrades could help improve a defense that, while solid, lacks some depth. The safety crew has improved, but could use playmaking.
“The pass rush has perked up, but rotational depth is a need; nearly all of New England’s pressure comes from the first-unit players, and the dropoff has been steep when New England calls on its backups. If the Pats really wanted to make a splash, adding an edge like Cincinnati Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson or Tennessee Titans linebacker Arden Key could take Mike Vrabel’s defense to the next level.”
If the Patriots manage to trade for a star pass rusher, their defense could become tough as the season progresses.
New England has yet to allow a running back to reach 50 rushing yards this season. By effectively shutting down the running game, the Patriots force opposing teams to rely more on the pass, creating numerous opportunities for an elite pass rusher to go after the quarterback.
