FOXBORO — Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel revealed that the team”s front office explored potential trades but ultimately decided against making any significant additions ahead of the NFL trade deadline.
Vrabel acknowledged the efforts of the staff, stating, “I know that everyone worked hard, that we investigated, looked in, made phone calls and what personnel departments do. And in the end, we decided that this was what we were going to do and decided to move forward with our preparation for Tampa Bay.”
Reports indicate that the front office was particularly interested in acquiring edge rushers and running backs. Despite the Patriots” strong performance early in the season, Vrabel emphasized that the team remained focused on winning and the challenges ahead. “I think that”s part of building a program. It”s finding ways to win, building a team and figuring out where the pieces are that we can continue to add when it makes sense. And so, I don”t think anything – I don”t think this is a negative. I don”t think this is – this is just where we”re at,” he said.
With a record of 7-2, the Patriots share the best record in the NFL with the Colts, who made headlines by trading two first-round picks and young receiver AD Mitchell to the Jets for former All-Pro cornerback Sauce Gardner. This offseason, the Jets secured Gardner with a four-year contract extension, solidifying his future in Indianapolis.
Last week, the Patriots initiated their own moves ahead of the trade deadline by dealing safety Kyle Dugger to Pittsburgh and defensive lineman Keion White to the 49ers. Both transactions involved pick swaps, sending a seventh-round pick with each player while acquiring sixth-round picks in return. Notably, if White participates in at least seven games for the 49ers, the Patriots will retain their seventh-round pick, as reported by the NFL Network.
Looking ahead, barring any further trades, the Patriots are poised to enter the upcoming NFL Draft with 10 or 11 picks.
