Patriots Explore Veteran WR Options as AJ Brown Insurance

New England could pivot to signing Deebo Samuel after failing to land Eagles star.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 4:51pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented football game scene, with sharp planes of navy blue, red, and white overlapping to create a dynamic, abstract visual representation of the sport.The Patriots' search for a top wide receiver target reflects the team's need to rebuild its passing attack.Philadelphia Today

With the Philadelphia Eagles unwilling to trade star wide receiver AJ Brown, the New England Patriots are exploring other veteran options to bolster their receiving corps. One potential target is Deebo Samuel of the San Francisco 49ers, whose versatility and production could appeal to the Patriots' offense.

Why it matters

The Patriots are in need of an established pass-catcher after parting ways with Stefon Diggs earlier in the offseason. While they signed former Packers wideout Romeo Doubs, the team may still be looking to add more veteran experience to complement their younger receiving corps.

The details

The Patriots have been linked to a potential trade for AJ Brown, but the Eagles have been reluctant to part with the star receiver. With Brown likely off the table, the team could pivot to signing Deebo Samuel, who is projected to have a market value of $15.8 million per year. Samuel's versatility as both a receiver and ball-carrier could make him an appealing fit for the Patriots' offense, though his production may decline as he enters the later stages of his career.

  • The Patriots parted ways with Stefon Diggs early in the offseason.
  • The Patriots signed former Packers wide receiver Romeo Doubs to replace Diggs.

The players

AJ Brown

A star wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles who the Patriots have been linked to in trade rumors.

Deebo Samuel

A versatile wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers who could be a potential free agent target for the Patriots.

Romeo Doubs

A former Green Bay Packers wide receiver who the Patriots signed to replace Stefon Diggs.

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What they’re saying

“His versatility should appeal to Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.”

— Gary Davenport, Bleacher Report Writer

What’s next

The Patriots will need to determine if they can sign Deebo Samuel at a reasonable price, or if they will have to wait until after the NFL Draft to address their wide receiver needs.

The takeaway

The Patriots are exploring all options to bolster their receiving corps, including potentially signing veteran Deebo Samuel, as they look to replace the production of Stefon Diggs and build around their younger pass-catchers.