The New England Patriots have been involved in a few trade rumors this offseason. A majority of those have stemmed from the team reportedly shopping quarterback Mac Jones. Jones struggled in Year 2 of his career and there is reportedly some tension between him and head coach Bill Belichick, who doubles as the team’s general manager.
That is something to keep an eye on as we head toward the 2023 NFL Draft next week. But, that isn’t the only trade rumor that the Patriots could find themselves in. Some people believe they would be a great landing spot for Devin White.
Last week, the star linebacker requested a trade from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, hoping a deal would help facilitate signing a new contract. White is reportedly fed up with the situation in Tampa Bay and is unhappy being there. New England was noted as one of the potential landing spots for the freakishly athletic linebacker by Bleacher Report.
“Going into his age-25 season, White would easily become the most accomplished player among the Patriots’ inside linebackers. “Essentially, New England can strengthen a shallow position and get a little younger in the middle of its defense with White in the fold.
The Patriots have $12.4 million in cap space. They can restructure Matthew Judon’s contract to save $5.2 million if White wants an immediate bump in salary.”He would also bring Super Bowl experience to a team that’s trying to regain prominence in its post-Tom Brady era.”
The No. 5 overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft has quite a productive track record as a pro. He has 483 tackles, 35 tackles for loss, 55 quarterback hits, 20.5 sacks, 15 passes defended, six forced fumbles, nine fumble recoveries and one interception in 62 games.
His performance during the Buccaneers’ run to the Super Bowl two years ago was truly eye-popping. While he hasn’t been as successful in some metrics since many believe that he will reset the linebacker market that saw two historic deals signed this offseason by Roquan Smith and Tremaine Edmunds.
Paying top of the market price for players isn’t something the Patriots are normally willing to do, but for White, they could be willing to make a concession. He would be a huge upgrade for the second level of their defense.
As pointed out by The Draft Network, the Patriots also possess the kind of draft capital Tampa Bay would likely seek in return for him. His fit in the team’s defense is also a good one, making this a potential match made in heaven.
