New England Patriots trade targets with deadline looming

Texans LT Duane Brown

Nate Solder has underperformed as the teams left tackle. He’s dealing with a ton of personal issues with his son, but the Patriots can’t allow that to lead to poor play. Perhaps a move to right tackle would be beneficial for Solder.

In this scenario, New England would send right tackle Cameron Fleming and a 5th Round Pick to Houston for Duane Brown. No one seems to know if he’s actually available, but there are a lot of signs pointing in the direction that he is. Fleming has been one of the most consistent Patriots on the offensive line this season, but Brown is a guy that can succeed and excel protecting Brady’s blindside.

Duane Brown is under contract for this season and the next, while Solder will be a free agent at the end of the season. The Texans would be taking him on a rental for the remainder of the year, which is why the extra draft pick is necessary to get this deal done. This is a deal that I don’t particularly love for New England, but in theory, it does make sense.