The NFL’ s October 28 trade deadline isn’t nearly as monumental as MLB’s, as trades in the NFL simply aren’t common. Having said that, the Patriots have never been afraid to be active in the trade market. Over the years, they’ve shipped out veteran players like Richard Seymour and Logan Mankins, and acquired playmakers such as Randy Moss and Wes Welker. With the deadline less than two weeks away, will New England seek to add talent via trade?
The Pats made a deadline deal last season, acquiring defensive tackle Isaac Sopoaga from the Eagles (along with a sixth-round pick) in exchange for a fifth-rounder. Tom Curran of CSNNE.com sees Bill Belichick & Co. being aggressive again this year, and believes the team could target linebacker and/or defensive end help. With the major injury to Jerod Mayo, and a minor back ailment nagging Rob Ninkovich, a move to bolster depth along the front seven would certainly make sense. It’s just my speculation, but the Pats might be moved to look for a running back, as well, in the wake of Stevan Ridley‘s season-ending injury. Here’s more from New England and the rest of the AFC East.
- Some league insiders don’t believe Percy Harvin has the temperament to play in the NFL, said Mike Florio of Pro Football Talk on NBC’s pregame coverage. Sources tell Florio it was a surprise the Jets gave Harvin what amounts to a third chance to correct his attitude, after failed stops in Minnesota and Seattle. Despite his playmaking ability, Harvin probably won’t be offered a fourth chance at success if he flames out in New York, per the PFT scribe.
- Patriots cornerback Brandon Browner was suspended for the first four games of the season, meaning the ex-Seahawk couldn’t practice with his new team during that span. As Belichick told reporters, including Phil Perry of CSNNE.com, it might take a few contests before Browner feels completely comfortable. “He wasn’t able to participate on the field with the team for those four weeks but he was able to work out and be in meetings and keep up with the adjustments and game plan things that we put in from week-to-week,” said Belichick. “Now he’s had an opportunity to get back on the field and refine those skills — at game speed or practice/game speed that are important.”
- Injuries to both Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller open the door for opportunities for Anthony Dixon and Bryce Brown, writes Tim Graham of the Buffalo News. The Bills gave up a conditional fourth-rounder for Brown during the offseason, so it’s a bit of surprise he hasn’t been utilized thus far.
- The Jets didn’t play today, but Rich Cimini of ESPN.com passes along some thoughts on New York’s acquisition of Harvin, Geno Smith‘s development, and Quinton Coples‘ decreasing playing time.