The New England Patriots stand to gain from exploring a trade for Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
Bleacher Report’s Alex Kay tabbed Thomas as being a player who may be expendable amid his slow start to the 2026 NFL season and labeled the Patriots as a trade suitor for the star receiver.
”With marquee offseason acquisition A.J. Brown on the shelf with a high-ankle sprain for several more weeks, the Pats shouldn't hesitate to make a bold trade for Brian Thomas Jr. to shore up the receiving corps,” Kay wrote. “…A change of scenery, as well as working with one of the game's best young signal-callers, could be all BTJ needs to get his career back on track.”
Thomas’ blend of size, downfield speed and big-play ability offers a needed
dimension to New England’s passing attack. Although Jacksonville may have reluctance to move one of their young foundational stars, the Patriots have much to gain from making a serious offer to the Jaguars in the event that Jacksonville’s management entertains discussions.
Through three games this season, Thomas has caught seven passes for 88 yards, but he has yet to score a touchdown. He is averaging 12.6 yards per reception per game, though he has lost one fumble while operating in a limited early-season role.
Thomas first emerged as a premier rookie in the NFL in 2024, as he recorded 87 catches for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. His production went down in 2025, when he finished with 48 receptions for 707 yards and two touchdowns in 14 games played. However, he averaged 14.7 yards per reception in each of his first two seasons in the league, which serves as a reminder of just how much he is capable of producing with every catch.
Thomas holds substantial trade value. Adding a dynamic outside receiver capable of stretching defenses and making big plays after the catch is just what is needed in New England at the moment.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots named as trade fit for former 1,000-yard receiver
