Three Realistic WR Trade Targets for Patriots During Camp
The New England Patriots enter 2025 training camp with one of the least proven wide receiver groups in the NFL. While there’s optimism about rookies and second-year players developing, it’s clear the offense still lacks a true difference-maker on the outside. With a new coaching regime looking to reestablish a functional passing attack, the Patriots could use this training camp window to explore trade opportunities for veteran wide receivers who fit both their scheme and timeline.
Here are three realistic wide receiver trade targets the Patriots should consider before the regular season begins:
1. Courtland Sutton (Denver Broncos)
Sutton is one of the most talked-about trade candidates this offseason — and for good reason. The Broncos are in a clear rebuild, and Sutton’s $13 million cap hit could be something they’re willing to move if the compensation is right. He’s a physical, contested-catch specialist who could immediately become the Patriots’ top option, particularly in red-zone situations.
At 6’4″, Sutton offers the kind of size and boundary presence the Patriots haven’t had in years. He wouldn’t cost a first-round pick — likely a mid-rounder and a conditional pick could get it done. If New England wants to help their quarterback with a reliable outside target, Sutton checks a lot of boxes.
2. Darnell Mooney (Atlanta Falcons)
Mooney signed with the Falcons this offseason, but given Atlanta’s crowded receiving room and the presence of Drake London and Kyle Pitts, he might be an odd fit in their run-heavy system. If he becomes available, the Patriots could view him as a high-upside slot/Z hybrid option.
Mooney has 1,000-yard potential when used correctly and would inject much-needed speed and route-running ability into New England’s receiver corps. He’s still only 27 and could be had for a reasonable price if the Falcons look to move a redundant asset. His ability to stretch the field and create separation would pair nicely with a quick-strike passing game.
3. Terrace Marshall Jr. (Carolina Panthers)
Marshall hasn’t lived up to his second-round pedigree in Carolina, but much of that has to do with poor quarterback play and limited usage. At 6’2″, 200 lbs, with sub-4.4 speed, he’s still just 24 years old and could benefit from a change of scenery.
The Patriots are in a position where taking a flier on a physically gifted but underutilized receiver makes sense. Marshall wouldn’t cost more than a late-round pick, and he’d offer outside versatility with some upside if developed properly in a better system. He fits the mold of a low-risk, high-reward player New England should be targeting during camp.