The New England Patriots could reshape their future with the draft capital they hold in the 2026 NFL Draft, just two months after reaching Super Bowl LX. With 11 total selections, the franchise has a major opportunity to retool the roster-while still keeping an eye on its ongoing interest in Philadelphia Eagles star wide receiver A.J. Brown.
Could that pursuit alter their draft strategy?
That’s the question raised by ESPN analyst Ben Solak, who believes New England has enough draft capital to address its needs at wide receiver but warns against using a first-round pick on the position. Instead, he suggests the team target help on Day 2 to maintain leverage in potential trade talks for Brown.
“One of the draft’s big questions is if and how the Patriots address wide receiver at the end of Round 1,” Solak wrote. “They have a clear need besides Romeo Doubs and Kayshon Boutte, and a bona fide WR1 is the best fit next to those two well-rounded talents. Of course, A.J. Brown is definitely a WR1, and guys such as Denzel Boston (Washington) and KC Concepcion (Texas A&M) also might be. If I were Eliot Wolf and Mike Vrabel, I’d pass on wide receiver in Round 1 but still hit it on Day 2 to keep leverage on the Eagles, who could eventually lower their demands this summer.”
The Patriots currently hold the No. 31 pick in the first round, along with selections at No. 63 and No. 95 on Day 2. Their remaining eight picks come in the later rounds.
Following Solak’s approach carries risk, especially if the Eagles refuse to move A.J. Brown or demand premium draft compensation in return. Still, some around the league believe New England is already positioning itself for a potential deal with GM Howie Roseman, keeping the possibility of a blockbuster trade alive.
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