The New England Patriots improved significantly at the wide receiver position in 2025, yet questions linger as the 2026 season approaches. Central to this uncertainty is whether Stefon Diggs, the team’s leading receiver, will remain part of the roster. Diggs, who surpassed 1,000 receiving yards last season—the first Patriots receiver to do so since Julian Edelman in 2019—is set to earn $20.6 million in 2026, carrying a $26.5 million cap hit that ranks second highest on the team after defensive tackle Milton Williams.
Coach Mike Vrabel and his staff face the decision of maintaining Diggs’ veteran leadership and chemistry with young quarterback Drake Maye against the possibility of freeing nearly $17 million in salary cap space. Such a move could enable investment in a younger receiver, potentially cheaper yet capable of taking on the No. 1 role. One candidate frequently mentioned as a trade target is Brian Thomas Jr., currently with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Reasons Jacksonville Might Consider Trading Brian Thomas Jr.
Although the Jaguars have not officially declared Thomas available, circumstances suggest they may entertain offers. Thomas posted an outstanding rookie campaign in 2024 with 87 receptions, 1,282 yards, and 10 touchdowns, but his 2025 numbers declined to 48 catches, 707 yards, and two touchdowns over 14 games. His catch rate dropped to 52.7 percent, and he appeared out of sync with quarterback Trevor Lawrence. With additional receivers Jakobi Meyers, Travis Hunter, and Parker Washington on the roster, the Jaguars can afford to part with Thomas to refresh his career and gain a reasonable return.
Potential Trade Price for Acquiring Thomas
Trade speculation includes proposals such as one from ESPN’s Bill Barnwell, suggesting a deal where the Buffalo Bills send wide receiver Keon Coleman and a 2026 first-round pick (No. 26 overall) to Jacksonville in exchange for Thomas and a 2026 fifth-round pick. Applying this framework, the Patriots might consider offering their first-round pick (No. 31 overall) along with a depth receiver, like DeMario Douglas, to obtain Thomas and possibly a mid-round draft pick in return.
Advantages of Adding Thomas to the Patriots’ Roster
While Kayshon Boutte is a promising talent, the Patriots would benefit from a dependable vertical receiving threat. Although Alec Pierce could fulfill that role through free agency, the 2026 receiver class beyond him is notably thin. Thomas demonstrated his ability to stretch the field during his rookie year—ranking seventh among NFL receivers with 18 catches of 20 yards or more, coupled with an average of 14.7 yards per catch. A new environment alongside fellow LSU product Boutte and quarterback Maye could reignite Thomas’ performance.
Moreover, Thomas remains under his rookie contract with two years remaining and a combined cap hit below $9 million for those seasons ($4 million in 2026; $4.6 million in 2027), making him a cost-effective option.
Concerns Against Pursuing a Trade for Thomas
Despite the potential benefits, the Patriots have already achieved a Super Bowl appearance with Maye supported by experienced receivers like the 32-year-old Diggs, Boutte, and Mack Hollins. The team currently faces greater roster needs in areas such as offensive line depth and edge rushing. Therefore, using the No. 31 draft pick to strengthen these positions may serve long-term goals more effectively.
Further, Thomas’ steep performance decline in 2025 introduces risk that the Patriots might not see a return to his rookie form. This uncertainty warrants careful evaluation before committing draft capital.
Next Steps and Strategic Considerations
The Patriots would do well to thoroughly investigate Thomas’ potential as a trade acquisition at a reasonable price. If acquiring him requires only a late first-round pick, his youth and upside may justify the gamble. However, Mike Vrabel’s vision involves constructing a sustainable, long-term program, suggesting the team may prioritize maintaining draft assets unless they uncover clear indications Thomas fits their plans.
