New England Patriots Rumors: 3 midseason wide receiver trade targets

New England Patriots trade target No. 2: Odell Beckham Jr.

Odell Beckham Jr. continues to be one of the most polarizing players in the NFL. After becoming an instant breakout star with the New York Giants in 2014, Beckham turned himself into one of the top receivers in the game. He subsequently demanded a trade, ending up on the Cleveland Browns, and has struggled to fit into their scheme and stay healthy.

Health has been a big part of the equation for Beckham, and he just returned to action in Week 3 this season after tearing his ACL midway through the previous season. Over those three games, Beckham has been eased back into action, catching only nine passes for 124 yards. The more interesting piece is his line from his abbreviated 2020 season; 23 receptions, 319 yards, three touchdowns.

It’s clear that Beckham has never really been used up to his potential during his time in Cleveland. Baker Mayfield loves to spread the ball around, and Beckham was used to being the focal point of the offense in a desolate Giants offense. Given his egotistical attitude and lack of involvement in the Browns offense, it feels like Beckham has constantly been involved in trade rumors during his tenure in Cleveland.

If Cleveland does decide to cut ties with the talented Beckham, the Patriots would be one of his top suitors. The Patriots have been linked with a move for Beckham for years, and his value would seemingly be at an all time low. Beckham has made it known that he wants to be more involved in the offense, and his temper may end up boiling over.

Beckham isn’t the same hot commodity he was at the beginning of his career. He turns 29 in less than three weeks, and has only played a full 16 games once over the past five seasons. But everyone knows Beckham has the ability to be one of the best wideouts in the league, and if New England wants to take a shot on him, it very well may end up paying off.