Why Patriots Should Focus Trade Efforts On DK Metcalf, Not A.J. Brown

The Patriots received fantastic news about the wide receiver market that they should pounce on.

According to NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, DK Metcalf requested a trade from the Seattle Seahawks. The report came days after the Boston Herald reported that New England looked into a trade for the star wideout. The Patriots also reportedly called the Philadelphia Eagles about a trade for A.J. Brown, so they do seem to be trying to do some big-game hunting.

Either wide receiver would be a game-changer for Mike Vrabel’s side. However, New England must choose between the two, and the Metcalf is worth pursuing more than Brown.

First of all, Metcalf actually wants out if his reported trade request is true. Brown’s relationship with Jalen Hurts was a contentious topic last season, but the 27-year-old hasn’t voiced a desire to leave Philadelphia. You also have the issue with contracts.

Browns signed a three-year extension worth $92 million last year. Metcalf has two years left on his contract, and it’s likely his reported trade request came because he wants a hefty extension.

The Patriots can fulfill his financial desires, which could be needed since Metcalf admitted Foxboro, Mass. wasn’t the most desirable place for him. Vrabel admitted that overpaying players might be the strategy this offseason and doing so could convince the Pro Bowl wideout that New England isn’t so bad.

There also might be a discount in trade compensation compared to Brown. The Eagles likely would want a hefty return for a player they still highly value. Seattle doesn’t have a lot of leverage. It released Tyler Lockett and probably will want a mid-round pick to draft his and eventually Metcalf’s replacement.

New England has the financial resources to make Metcalf one of the highest-paid receivers and it has the draft capital to entice the Seahawks to get a deal done without the situation getting ugly.