NFL rumors have linked the New England Patriots to AJ Brown this offseason but nothing has come to fruition. As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, there is now reportedly a perception around the league that New England could make a very different move on draft night.
NFL general managers who spoke to SportsBoom's Jason La Canfora predicted the Patriots will attempt to move up in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft with the intention of adding to the offensive line.
New England has already made changes to the offensive line this offseason. After trading center Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears, they are moving 2025 third-round pick Jared Wilson back to his natural position at center. Taking his place at left guard on the Patriots offensive line is free-agent signee Elijah Vera-Tucker, who will provide New England with its strongest left guard in years.
The left side of the Patriots' offensive line is seemingly settled for the next two-plus years, leaving right tackle as a potential spot to be addressed in Round 1. Morgan Moses played relatively well last season, but he is now 35 and could be a cap casualty in 2027.
Currently holding the 31st overall pick in Round 1, New England could potentially try to move into the top-25 to land an offensive tackle. This could potentially put them in range of landing someone like Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu, Alabama offensive lineman Kadin Proctor or Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller. Moving forward would likely cost a third-round pick and take the team out of the mix to acquire Brown.
The team will likely take that offensive lineman taken in Round 1 as a developmental selection, using him as a swing tackle for the 2026 NFL season who can step in if Moses or Will Campbell are lost. Depending on the player, especially if it's Proctor, the rookie could also provide depth at guard.
For now, New England is certainly keeping their options open and a trade for Brown remains on the table. However, if that deal doesn't come to fruition, we could still see the Patriots make a draft-night deal.
