New England Patriots: 3 positions of need as trade deadline approaches
New England Patriots position of need No. 1: Cornerback
It’s a real shame the Patriots couldn’t figure out a deal with star cornerback Stephon Gilmore, because they could certainly use a player of his caliber in the secondary right about now. The cornerback group in particular has been hit hard recently, and it feels like if they don’t make a move at this position before the deadline, they could be in trouble come the second half of the season.
Losing Gilmore was certainly a blow, but it came to be expected a bit. Another blow was suffered this week when it was announced top slot corner Jonathan Jones was going to be forced to miss the rest of the season after undergoing shoulder surgery. Now the Pats are left scrambling trying to find bodies to fill in the rest of the cornerback depth chart, and a trade may be required to solve the issue.
J.C. Jackson remains as solid as ever atop the depth chart, and has cemented himself as a true number one corner this season. Jalen Mills started off the season strong, but has really struggled over the past two games, particularly against Dallas and CeeDee Lamb in Week 6. After that it was Jones at the slot, but now it’s basically a free-for-all.
Joejuan Williams has struggled to find a role for himself in his third season, although he did have a very good game against the Jets last weekend. Shaun Wade has been dealing with a concussion, and he probably would be the most logical in-house replacement for Jones if he was healthy. Myles Bryant has been holding down the position in Jones’ absence, but relying on a practice squad player for the rest of the season seems like wishful thinking.
Next. Christian Barmore is living up to lofty expectations. dark
It seems like making a move for a slot corner to replace Jones would be the most logical move to make at the deadline. They could swing for a more under the radar guy, such as Vernon Hargreaves III on the Houston Texans, or a star player such as Kyle Fuller on the Denver Broncos. Either way, this is the biggest need moving forward, and if New England’s secondary doesn’t get going soon, they won’t be in contention for a wild spot much longer.