The New England Patriots should be paying close attention to what other teams do, and they don’t have to look too far for one particular set of potential moves.
Myles Garrett has said he wants to be traded away from the Browns. Cleveland hasn’t yet honored the request, but general manager Andrew Berry told reporters at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine that tough decisions would need to be made.
According to The Athletic’s Dianna Russini on Saturday, the Philadelphia Eagles’ interest in a Garrett trade is real. It’s a terrifying thought imagining the 2023 Defensive Player of the Year on the same line as Jalen Carter, but it’s one the Patriots should hope happens.
If Philly does acquire Garrett, it becomes far likelier that linebacker Zack Baun, edge rusher Josh Sweat, defensive tackle Milton Williams and guard Mekhi Becton walk in free agency. The Eagles reportedly will release Darius Slay in addition to James Bradberry, so they’re already getting ahead on moves to relieve their salary cap situation.
That mix of players would be perfect for what head coach Mike Vrabel wants to build in New England. The Patriots need to get that guarantee that at least one of them is available on the open market since they already got the short end of other potential targets.
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It might seem weird to root for another team to get exponentially better, but if it allows great players to enter free agency, it could help the Patriots.
Featured image via Joseph Maiorana/Imagn Images
