Kansas City Chiefs may trade for Pro Bowl receiver

The Kansas City Chiefs began their organized team activities on May 26, but wide receiver Rashee Rice will not be in attendance after violating his probation. He will also miss the team’s mandatory minicamp in June while serving a 30-day jail sentence.

While Rice’s absence provides an opportunity for other receivers to step up and master the offense, it also means Kansas City’s scoring attack will be missing another key aspect. Ultimately, the Chiefs may feel like they have no choice but to strengthen their WR corps, possibly via trade.

according to Sports IllustratedAccording to Albert Breer, the Chiefs could “circle back” to a trade for Philadelphia Eagles receiver AJ Brown. Previous reports have suggested that it is “somewhat understandable” that the Eagles are trading Brown, but the assumption is that the Pro Bowl wideout will head to the New England Patriots, where he will reunite with his former head coach, Mike Vrabel.

Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver AJ Brown
Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagen Images

Still, without submitting a trade to the NFL, there is always a chance for a team like the Chiefs to “circle back” and make a stronger offer than the Patriots for the Browns.

Additionally, the Chiefs were a popular choice to select a receiver in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. It’s possible the draft board didn’t stack up the way Chiefs general manager Brett Veach wanted, so he ended up with cornerback Mansur Delaney and defensive tackle Peter Woods on the first night.

If the Chiefs do indeed have a receiver high on their target list ahead of draft night, it’s certainly possible that Kansas City will make a strong effort for the impact receiver before training camp begins on July 21.

RELATED: 5 Kansas City Chiefs targets to keep an eye on as Rashee Rice situation evolves

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Kansas #City #Chiefs #trade #Pro #Bowl #receiver

Los Angeles Rams seen as ‘best team fit’ for Pro Bowl receiver

The Los Angeles Rams were a popular choice to select a wide receiver or tight end in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Puka Nacua and Davante Adams are both in the final year of their contracts, making it worthwhile for the Rams to consider the future of the position.

While Nacua is a franchise cornerstone and certainly a part of the Rams’ future plans after the 2026 season ends, Adams will turn 34 next season. Five receivers were selected among the 32 picks of the first round, but the Rams did not contribute to those numbers, instead making the surprise selection of quarterback Ty Simpson with the 13th pick.

In fact, the Rams didn’t address the receiver room until the sixth round of the draft. Given that this is a team that is ready to win now, it’s a little surprising they didn’t bring in someone who had more potential to make an immediate impact.

However, everyone recognizes the Rams as a potential Super Bowl contender, which makes them an attractive landing spot for the best receivers still available in free agency.

Stefon Diggs of the Buffalo Bills
Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-USA TODAY Sports

Recently, ESPN’s Matt Bowen named the Rams as the “best team fit” for four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs.

“The Ravens could be a fit for Diggs, but I really like them in L.A. with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams. The Rams attempted 430 passes out of 11 personnel (three wide receivers) last season, which was ninth-most in the league, and Diggs is a natural separator who can line up inside or outside. Plus, he has the ability to work in the middle of the field on in-breaking concepts. Toughness is a key element of coach Sean McVay’s offense. That will be a handy boost for quarterback Matthew Stafford.

ESPN’s Matt Bowen is the best fit for Stefon Diggs

Diggs’ last Pro Bowl season came in 2023, but the Rams aren’t asking him to come in and be a superhero next to Nacua and Adams. Reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford just needs a reliable third weapon that can win his 1-on-1 battles, and even at age 32, Diggs has shown he can get the job done.

Last season, Diggs recorded 85 receptions for 1,013 yards and four touchdowns while serving as the No. 1 target for Drake Mays during the New England Patriots’ Super Bowl run. He won’t get as many opportunities in Los Angeles, but signing with the Rams and accepting a reduced role could give Diggs his best chance yet to win a Super Bowl.

RELATED: 2026 NFL QB rankings after Aaron Rodgers rejoins the Steelers

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Los #Angeles #Rams #team #fit #Pro #Bowl #receiver

Washington Commanders join 4x Pro Bowl receiver

Last year, the Washington Commander’s leading receiver was Deebo Samuel with 727 yards and five touchdowns. But now the 30-year-old is a free agent.

The Commanders’ next leading receiver was Terry McLaurin, who had 582 yards and three touchdowns, but was limited to only 10 games due to injury. While the Commanders selected Antonio Williams in the third round, there is no guarantee the rookie will contribute immediately. So, how will Washington replace Samuel’s production?

Sports IllustratedAlbert Breer recently suggested the Commanders sign free agent receiver Stefon Diggs. It may help that Diggs is a DC native. However, as Breyer noted, several other teams may be interested in the four-time Pro Bowler.

“I think Diggs would probably be somewhere in that one-year, $10 million range. The Chiefs could understand. The Commander could understand, because Diggs is from D.C., the Falcons and Rams would also be interesting landing spots.”

SI’s Albert Breer on Stefon Diggs

Now that teams can sign free agents without impacting their 2027 compensatory pick formula, we may see the market heat up for starters like Diggs.

Last season, Diggs made a significant impact in New England, recording 85 receptions for 1,013 receiving yards and four touchdowns. He could make a similar difference in Washington, and he might even be able to add his younger brother, cornerback Trevon Diggs, to the mix. Dan Quinn was Diggs’ defensive coordinator in Dallas for three seasons from 2021 to 2023.

Together, the Diggs brothers could help the Commanders in their quest to return to the playoffs this season.

RELATED: 2026 NFL QB rankings after Aaron Rodgers rejoins the Steelers

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Washington #Commanders #join #Pro #Bowl #receiver

Cincinnati Bengals tipped to add former All-Pro receiver

When it comes to a wide receiver duo, the Cincinnati Bengals have one of the best in the business. At his peak, Ja’Marr Chase is in the running for the NFL’s best receiver. Meanwhile, Tee Higgins is certainly one of the NFL’s best No. 2 receivers.

after this? The wide welcoming corps of the rest of the Bengalis leaves much to be desired. In other words, there is more room for an established playmaker.

recently, Sports IllustratedEva Geitheim had a suggestion that could potentially give the Bengals the third playmaker they are looking for. His idea was to sign three-time All-Pro wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins to the Bengals.

cincinnati bengals, deandre hopkins
tommy gilligan-imagen images

“The Bengals could bring in a veteran wideout like DeAndre Hopkins. Cincinnati already boasts one of the league’s best receiving duos in Jamar Chase and Tee Higgins, but the depth could increase with the signing of Hopkins, who expressed Sports Illustrated He would like to play with Joe Burrow in the Kentucky Derby. “

The point is, Hopkins doesn’t have much left to offer. While the five-time Pro Bowler is one of the most accomplished receivers of this generation with over 13,000 receiving yards to his name, he only put up 330 yards and two touchdowns in 17 games with the Ravens last season.

Is he really the playwright Bengalis are looking for? They may feel like they would be better off continuing to take advantage of the better opportunities they already have on the roster.

Last year, the Bengals’ third receiver, Andrei Iosivas, recorded 435 yards and two touchdowns. Aside from Chase and Higgins, the Bengals did not have any other wide receiver over 150 yards. This year, the Bengals added fourth-round pick Colby Young to the mix, and Cincinnati may feel more inclined to take a chance on the youth on the roster before reaching out to someone like Hopkins.

RELATED: 2026 NFL QB rankings: From the NFL’s worst starting QBs to the best

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Cincinnati #Bengals #tipped #add #AllPro #receiver

Former All-Pro receiver wants to join Joe Burrow at Cincinnati Bengals

Suddenly, the Cincinnati Bengals have shown a willingness to make a big deal. This proved true when Bengals general manager Duke Tobin agreed to send the team’s first-round pick, No. 10 overall, to the New York Giants in exchange for star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence.

The Bengals were willing to make the move knowing that Lawrence, a three-time Pro Bowl DT, would make a bigger immediate impact than any player coming into the 2026 NFL Draft class. While Bengal are clearly still looking to win, could another experienced player come in?

One player without a contract, wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, recently stated his case to join the Bengals, where he wants to team up with Joe Burrow. Hopkins thinks Burrow is “one of the best.” Hopkins named the Bengals QB’s toughness and his history of leading the team to the Super Bowl in Burrow’s second season in the NFL as reasons for his choice.

While the 33-year-old Hopkins is clearly interested in continuing his football career, there has been no buzz on his market since becoming a free agent.

He has also mentioned interest in reuniting with his former Arizona Cardinals QB Kyler Murray at the Minnesota Vikings. The Vikings recently brought in a veteran receiver for a workout, so they’re clearly looking for depth after the NFL Draft as well. Perhaps Hopkins could also be a fit for Minnesota, but he has not expressed any interest yet.

Hopkins spent last season with the Baltimore Ravens, where he caught 22 of 39 targets for 330 yards and two touchdowns. The three-time All-Pro and five-time Pro Bowler hasn’t had a 1,000-yard season since 2023, when he was with the Tennessee Titans.

Clearly still feeling like he has something to prove, the Bengals won’t lose anything by bringing the seven-time 1,000-yard receiver in for a workout. At best, he shows he can be a difference-maker in Cincinnati. If not, the Bengals may feel more confident in the talent they have, confident that their younger options may be better in the long run.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Power Rankings: Evaluating the worst, best teams after the NFL Draft

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ


#AllPro #receiver #join #Joe #Burrow #Cincinnati #Bengals

Best class in years, but the wide receiver room still needs answers

There is a version of this column that spends 700 words parsing each Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft pick and finding reasons to hedge. It would take too much thinking on this. The Las Vegas Raiders had one of the best drafts in the NFL this weekend, and Jon Spytek deserves credit for running it like a front office with a real plan.

With how his first year unfolded, many in Raider Nation were skeptical about whether Spytek could be trusted with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. After all, his first year, with former coach Pete Carroll, was filled with missed drafts and free agent misses. Yet, according to astute observers, there was something else at play.

No, 2026 was the first time we got a full glimpse of how Spytek, along with minority owner Tom Brady and some new scouting and front office staff, will run and build this thing. And, I must say, it was impressive.

Jon Spytek didn’t overthink it, he addressed key roster needs

NFL: Las Vegas Raiders press conference
Kirby Lee-Images Images

Start with the foundation: Fernando Mendoza was never going to be wrong at No. 1. Las Vegas is already building a real support system around him, including Tyler Linderbaum at center, Ashton Jeanty in the backfield and Brock Bowers at tight end. The job of picks two through 10 was to add that infrastructure and fix the secondary. They did both, and then some.

Treydan Stukes addressed two needs at once – nickelback and safety – and was a legitimate first-round pick heading into draft weekend. Stukes isn’t a sexy pick, but he is a functional guy, and in a draft where the Raiders had a long list of needs, picking the guy who covers the most ground makes sense.

At 91, Trey Zuhn III might have been the steal of the day. He posted the highest pass-blocking grade at 96.8 among all college tackles on Pro Football Focus, and the Raiders took him in the third round. He was announced as a center but played tackle at Texas A&M. As for his NFL career, the truth probably lies somewhere in the middle. Either way, he is a high-floor player protecting a rookie quarterback. You can’t argue with that.

Then the third day came and Spytek did not turn off the gas.

McCoy’s selection was off the charts

Jermod McCoy Las Vegas Raiders NFL Draft
Jacob Musselman-Imagen Images

Honestly, at 101 years old, Jermod McCoy feels like a steal. He was the 14th overall prospect on the consensus big board and shouldn’t have fallen that far. Length, pace, ball skills – he has everything you want in a modern cornerback. The knee injury concerns are real – there are a lot of questions about McCoy’s health, and that’s why he still sat out Day 3. But the Raiders liked him enough to trade up a spot, sending a 7th-rounder to Buffalo to make sure they got him. It’s about being aggressive, and when top-14 talent is sitting in the fourth round being aggressive is always the right decision. If McCoy is healthy, this selection looks like the best value in the entire draft.

Mike Washington Jr. adds versatility and physicality to the backfield. He ran a 4.33-second 40 and gave Ashton Jeanty a real running partner – someone who can contribute in the passing game and break tackles if needed. The attackers made a bargain to get him too. Again, perfect trend.

Before crowning the attackers, consider what didn’t happen

Don't Sell Jack Thornton Raiders
Credit: SNBToday/Sportsnaut

So, where does all this leave us? In a really good place, something you couldn’t say about this franchise 12 months ago.

That said — and this column will be honest — there are real questions that weren’t answered this weekend.

Wide receiver Malik Benson was taken in the sixth round. Sixth rounder. The Raiders brought in several top wideouts for Top 30 trips throughout the spring, only for it to play out as a smoke screen. Benson has 4.37 speed and is legit, but he is a developmental piece, not a solution. Las Vegas took Deonte Thornton Jr. and Jack Beech last year, and neither of them came off a screen. At some point, Mendoza is going to need a legitimate No. 1 target outside of Brock Bowers to make things work. That question is still open.

and the defensive tackle position – the Raiders finally addressed a gap at nose tackle with their final selection of the draft, Brandon Cleveland, in the 7th round. 7th round. He has good size and is a reasonable run stopper, but it’s hard to see him making a real impact as a rookie. Passing Tyree Wilson and answering the D-tackle position at pick 229 is a bet that the room is better than it looks. Maybe it is. But this is a condition.

None of this changes the overall verdict. The Raiders had a strong free agency period followed by a draft that would yield good grades throughout the league. Spytech was aggressive, targeted real needs and found value at almost every turn. For a franchise that has spent years drafting without direction, this weekend really felt different.

Ceiling questions at receiver and interior D-line are real. But the Las Vegas Raiders 2026 NFL Draft gave themselves a chance. After decades of head-scratching drafts, it’s a good place to be.

Avatar
Scott Gulbransen, a quintessential expert in the field of sports journalism, serves as an editor, nfl , mlb , Formula 1…More about Scott Gulbransen


#class #years #wide #receiver #room #answers

Washington Commanders interested in 2x 1,000-yard receiver

Now that the 2026 NFL Draft has ended, teams can continue to fill out their rosters with undrafted free agent signees and other veterans who still have not signed contracts for the upcoming season. This also includes the Washington Commanders, who entered the three-day event with a total of six selections.

As expected, the Commanders still have some needs to address after a disastrous 2025 season that ended with only five wins. Still, as all teams do, the Commanders have a list of players they want to add to the roster.

According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Chiefs have “significant interest” in signing wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk from the San Francisco 49ers.

The point is, the 49ers have not released Aiyuk. San Francisco’s front office strongly prefers to trade the two-time 1,000-yard receiver. Yet, until now, no one wanted to offer anything of value to the 28-year-old, who wasn’t able to play a single snap last season due to a knee injury.

It also doesn’t help that Aiyuk is in just the second year of a four-year, $120 million contract. Teams first want Aiyuk to be able to prove he’s healthy before taking on a $13.6 million cap hit for a player who wasn’t available last season.

Thus, teams are playing the waiting game, hoping the 49ers feel like they have no choice but to release a player who finished as a second-team All-Pro in 2023.

RELATED: 6 best 2026 NFL draft classes including the Bills and Browns

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Washington #Commanders #interested #1000yard #receiver

New York Giants bring in All-Pro receiver for workout

Most of the attention is on the 2026 NFL Draft for the New York Giants team with two selections in the first round. Since the trade that sent Dexter Lawrence to the Bengals in exchange for the tenth overall pick, speculation has increased that the Giants could use one of their selections on a wide receiver to boost Jackson Darts’ supporting cast.

Still, the Giants have some time before the start of the NFL Draft, which begins April 23 and runs through April 25. On Monday, he used some of it to put a franchise icon through a private workout at the team facility.

According to Ryan Dunleavy New York PostThe Giants spent Monday working on wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.

There has been some talk this offseason about linking the Giants to the three-time Pro Bowler and two-time second-team All-Pro selection. Both sides appeared ready to compromise, but many believed it was just wishful thinking on the part of the 33-year-old receiver, who didn’t play a single snap last offseason.

However, as Ian Rapoport reported, a “reunion” between the Giants and OBJ seems possible. Based on Monday’s workout, we couldn’t agree more.

Beckham last played in nine games with the Ravens in 2024, where he caught nine passes for 55 yards. He recorded 35 receptions for 565 yards and three touchdowns in 2023 after a torn ACL kept him out of football in 2022. Beckham’s last 1,000-yard season came in 2019 with the Browns.

Still, the Giants may feel like he still has something left in the tank, although there has been no reporting on how Beckham performed in workouts, and whether they have improved his chances of signing a contract.

RELATED: 2026 New York Giants mock draft, Nos. 5 to 193

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#York #Giants #bring #AllPro #receiver #workout

New England Patriots ‘likely’ to trade for Pro Bowl receiver

So far, ever since the New England Patriots lost in Super Bowl LX, we’ve seen general manager Eliot Wolf make radical changes to the team’s receiving corps. But are they better than before?

Stefon Diggs has been let go (and has yet to sign anywhere else). The Patriots have replaced him with Romeo Dobbs on a $68 million contract. But Dobbs, who has played four seasons, has never gone above 750 yards in a year. However, he finished with a career-high 724 yards passing with the Packers.

Nevertheless, the Patriots may still want to upgrade their group of pass-catchers, and those around the NFL expect New England to do so via trade.

According to ESPN’s NFL insider Adam Schefter, the Patriots are “likely” to trade for AJ Brown from the Eagles. But not until after June 1, when they will be allowed to spread the Browns’ dead salary cap charge over two seasons instead of taking the $40 million penalty in 2026.

“The Eagles are open to trading AJ Brown, the Patriots are highly interested in acquiring the star receiver, and according to league sources, talks are expected to resume on or before June 1, which could result in a deal. As a source said of the Patriots’ pursuit of Brown, they “would certainly be attractive then.” A trade with New England is now being considered a possibility.”

ESPN’s Adam Schefter on AJ Brown trade

While the Patriots and Eagles have more than a month to work out the specifics of a potential Browns trade, others believe there may already be a verbal agreement between the two teams. Or, the Eagles could still hope another team comes along with an even stronger offer than the one New England is making for the four-time Pro Bowl receiver.

If traded to New England, Brown would be reunited with Mike Vrabel, who was his head coach on the Titans from 2019 to 2021. Suddenly, the receiving tandem of Brown and Dobbs looks better than New England’s top two pass-catchers did last season, when it was just Diggs and Hunter Henry, who were second on the team with 768 receiving yards. Henry is still under contract through 2026.

RELATED: NFL Rumors: AJ Brown trade may already be on the cards between PHI Eagles, NE Patriots

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#England #Patriots #trade #Pro #Bowl #receiver

Baltimore Ravens urged to trade first-round pick for superstar receiver

The Baltimore Ravens have the 14th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Still, there’s always a possibility that they won’t use the selection. Trades are always possible, and the Ravens could move up or down the draft board.

Or, they could also trade out of the first round.

Recently, Bleacher Report’s Christopher Knox highlighted some potential trade outcomes that could emerge during the draft. In doing so, he suggested that the Ravens could trade the 14th overall pick to the Cowboys in exchange for superstar wide receiver George Pickens, who was coming off a career-high 1,429 receiving yards. Pickens is also entering the final year of his contract, leading some to wonder if Dallas would be open to a blockbuster trade offer.

“Replacing Pickens with a receiver like Kevin Concepcion or Omar Cooper Jr. on a rookie contract would make a lot of financial sense,” Knox wrote. “Snagging Pickens would make sense for a team like the Baltimore Ravens. Baltimore could use a legitimate No. 1 receiver, and Pickens would certainly fill that need. He might also get a chance to go up against the Pittsburgh Steelers team that snubbed him a year ago.”

While trading the 14th overall pick would be tough, coming away from the draft with a proven receiver like Pickens would be worth the price. The question is, would the Cowboys really be willing to give up one of their best players?

Some think so, but others believe the Cowboys will not mess up during contract negotiations this time.

RELATED: ‘Very likely’ to draft Baltimore Ravens’ top-ranked player

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Baltimore #Ravens #urged #trade #firstround #pick #superstar #receiver

Elite receiver could fall to Patriots at pick 31 after new draft rumors

The New England Patriots are in desperate need of a No. 1 receiver for the 2026 season, and it could fall into their kitty in Round 1 of this month’s NFL Draft.

While the Patriots’ offense took a notable step forward in 2025, it was mostly due to the MVP-level play of young quarterback Drake Mays. But as the competition became tougher in the postseason, the need for the team to bring in more weapons for him became apparent.

To start the offseason, Mayes’ goal of getting more impact targets became difficult when he parted ways with Stefon Diggs, his top receiver from last season. However, in free agency, the team addressed the growing problem by signing veteran Romeo Doubs from the Green Bay Packers. But there is no clear evidence that he can be a legitimate WR1 in 2026.

With the top free agent receivers off the board, the Patriots now need to look to this month’s NFL Draft to get their budding superstar QB a better target for next season. However, the WR position is always a target for teams at the start of the event, and previous mock drafts suggested that the best three in this year’s class – Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon and Jordan Tyson – would be off the board in the first 20 selections.

Will Jordan Tyson still be on the board this late in Round 1?

Patriot
Mark J. rebilas-imagen images

Well, probably not. According to ESPN NFL expert Matt Miller, Tyson is now likely to fall out of the top 20 because “his hamstring problems are of concern to teams.” Furthermore, his eight declines in 2024 also worry interested franchises. Football Insider said Indiana’s Omar Cooper Jr. could surpass him and be the third WR selected in Round 1.

The Patriots should also be concerned about injury and decline issues. However, he has been in the debate as the best pass catcher in 2026 for several reasons. He is an excellent route runner who should make an immediate impact in the NFL. He is in good shape at 6 feet 2 inches and 200 pounds. Additionally, he has shown a strong ability to consistently beat defenders for balls in the air.

If Tyson is still on the board when the Patriots are on the board at 31 — which is now very possible — the Patriots should and likely will jump at the chance to select him.

Avatar
After earning a journalism degree in 2017, Jason Burgos worked as a contributor to several sites, including MMA Sacca… More about Jason Burgos

#Elite #receiver #fall #Patriots #pick #draft #rumors

New England Patriots ready to trade for Pro Bowl receiver

As incredible as their season was, the New England Patriots didn’t have enough to win Super Bowl LX. Still, since the 29-13 loss to Seattle, one could argue that the Patriots have only gotten better.

While swapping Stefon Diggs for Romeo Dobbs could either backfire or be a great signing, the Patriots have already strengthened one of their biggest weaknesses by signing left guard Alijah Vera-Tucker and backup left tackle James Hudson III. While the line has undoubtedly improved, has Drake Mays’ receiving corps gotten worse?

No matter how you feel about the Diggs/Dubs swap, one thing that can’t be denied is that the Patriots could use another playmaking pass-catcher. The solution may be available through trade.

Recently, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel was asked about the AJ Brown trade rumors. It’s no surprise that New England is willing to add the Pro Bowl receiver to their team at the right price.

“We’ll try to do whatever we can to continue to strengthen the roster,” Vrabel said.

Of course, one of the biggest reasons the Patriots are often the first team linked to a trade for an Eagles receiver is because Vrabel was the Browns’ head coach with the Titans from 2019 to 2021. The receiver has always had a strong relationship with Coach Vrabel, regardless of who was the general manager of the Titans at the time Brown was traded to the Eagles.

With the Patriots reaching the Super Bowl in 2025, New England fits the criteria of the type of team Brown would want to play for, and already being familiar with the head coach certainly wouldn’t hurt. Still, if the Eagles’ asking price is too high, New England could look to younger, more affordable options in the 2026 NFL Draft.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#England #Patriots #ready #trade #Pro #Bowl #receiver

Buffalo Bills have talked to 6x 1,000-yard receiver

Wide receiver has been a controversial position for the Buffalo Bills in recent seasons, really ever since they moved on from Stefon Diggs. While the team is still a strong annual playoff contender as long as they have Josh Allen, some can’t help but wonder if the team will experience more success in the postseason with better playmakers to help their MVP quarterback.

The Bills made a potentially impressive move by trading the 60th overall pick as well as the 165th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to the Bears in exchange for DJ Moore. But is this enough?

It turns out, Buffalo’s job may not be complete.

According to Bills general manager Brandon Beane, the team has already talked to former Buffalo receiver (now free agent) Brandin Cooks.

He is an extremely accomplished receiver with six 1,000-yard receiving seasons to his name. Still, Cook will also be 33 when the season starts. He hasn’t even had a 1,000-yard season since 2021.

Cooks spent five games with the Bills last season, but he managed only five receptions for 114 yards on 11 targets. Perhaps another season in first-year head coach Joe Brady’s system could help Cooks become a more impactful contributor in Buffalo. Still, history shows he’s not the playmaking solution Buffalo was looking for.

Still, that doesn’t mean he can’t help the Bills in a complementary role to their top receivers. Plus, he certainly won’t break the bank as a free agent, having not thrown for 279 yards since 2023. In other words, while it never hurts to give him a chance to impress, the Bills would be better off giving that chance to a young receiver with long-term upside rather than one whose best days are long gone.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Buffalo #Bills #talked #1000yard #receiver

Cleveland Browns Trade Idea Nets Young Pro Bowl Receiver

The Cleveland Browns are in the midst of an organizational overhaul. They have already moved on from two-time NFL Coach of the Year Kevin Stefanski and hired Todd Monken to replace him. Despite having three QBs on the roster, the Browns also do not have a franchise quarterback.

Still, to properly evaluate Cleveland’s quarterback situation, they may want to strengthen the foundation around him. Whether it’s offensive line, pass-catcher, or both, Brown has a lot of unproven upside. They also have two first-round picks, one or possibly two of which could be used at respective positions.

However, recently, Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski had another idea. Why not try to trade for a proven talent who is already an NFL veteran? He suggests that the Browns trade wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. to the Jaguars.

“What could have been (an) interesting turn of events reminiscent of the film draft dayThe Cleveland Browns could acquire this year’s first-round pick, originally from the Jacksonville Jaguars, which, where it is concerned, would cost the trade along with wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.

Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski on the Browns/Brian Thomas Jr. trade

While trading for Thomas, a one-time Pro Bowler who is still only 23 years old, might seem like an ideal solution in Cleveland, there is no guarantee Jacksonville wants to trade him. In fact, more reports suggest that the 23rd overall pick of the 2024 NFL Draft isn’t actually even available.

Thomas started 14 games last season, recording 707 receiving yards and two touchdowns. A year ago, Thomas started all 17 games while recording 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. If he can get back to that level of production, Thomas could emerge as Cleveland’s new alpha receiver, forming a strong tandem with Jerry Jeudy.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: End of March edition

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Cleveland #Browns #Trade #Idea #Nets #Young #Pro #Bowl #Receiver

Washington Commander strongly linked to former All-Pro wide receiver

Since the offseason officially began, the Washington Commanders have been one of the busiest teams in free agency. He has focused firmly on upgrading a defense that ranked 27th in points allowed, but has also grown the offense. There may be more on the way.

The San Francisco 49ers are in “no rush” to part ways with wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Still, it’s good to be gone. Schefter believes the 49ers are still hopeful they will receive some type of trade offer for the former second-team All-Pro.

The 49ers are playing the waiting game, hoping a team will get desperate enough to make a bid for Aiyuk, even if it’s a small trade return like a late Day 3 draft pick. Still, it’s better to get something than nothing for the 27-year-old receiver.

It’s also possible the 49ers saw the writing on the wall, and believe Aiyuk is waiting for a chance to join his old college quarterback Jayden Daniels in Washington.

As ESPN’s Nick Wagner recently pointed out, “Washington makes a lot of sense.”

“He played with Jaden Daniels in college,” Wagner wrote. “They’re very close. I’m sure Jaden Daniels would love to play with Brandon Aiyuk again, but I don’t think the 49ers are in a rush to move on from Brandon Aiyuk, even though we know they will eventually.”

Aiyuk did not play a snap in 2025 while recovering from a torn ACL and MCL suffered in 2024. Still, with the Commander seeing as Deebo Samuel’s contract expires this offseason, there’s no doubt they could use another pass-catcher in DC and if Aiyuk is healthy he could be a good fit.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft After NFL Free Agency Negotiation Window

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Washington #Commander #strongly #linked #AllPro #wide #receiver

New England Patriots sign $80 million wide receiver Drake Mays

The New England Patriots finally have a new wide receiver. The Patriots have agreed to a four-year, $68 million deal with free-agent wide receiver Romeo Doubs, Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer reports. If Dobbs reaches other incentives his contract reaches a maximum of $80 million.

The 25-year-old wide receiver has spent his entire NFL career with the Green Bay Packers. During the 2024–25 NFL season, Dobbs earned 55 receptions, 724 yards, and six touchdowns in 16 games. Dobbs has also played more than 13 games in every season of his NFL career with Green Bay. This is a big payday for one of the best wide receivers in free agency.

New England was linked to Alec Pierce before he re-signed with the Indianapolis Colts, so this is no surprise. Doubs was arguably the third-best wide receiver on the market behind Pierce and Wan’Dale Robinson, so $17 million per year and the potential for $20 million is an excellent deal for both sides.

The Patriots are also in talks with the Philadelphia Eagles regarding wide receiver AJ Brown, but that shouldn’t take them out of the mix. Brown has been New England’s top target, and the team was ready to add him and Stefon Diggs to the roster at the right price.

Doubs currently leads the wide receiver room and is followed by Kayshon Boutte, Kyle Williams, Mack Hollins and others. However, the Patriots’ offense would be elite if they could find a way to acquire a wide receiver that would put Doubs in the WR2 role. For now, former Packer Drake will serve as Maye’s top target.

Wide receiver was New England’s top need heading into NFL free agency, so Dobbs checked a box in replacing Diggs. Now, the Patriots will move forward with their other needs as they continue their pursuit of Brown.

READ MORE: NFL Insider gives major update on AJ Brown, New England Patriots trade rumors

Avatar
Austin Konensky is a sports writer at SportsNut, covering the NHL, MLB, NFL, NBA and college football. His work…More about Austin Konensky

#England #Patriots #sign #million #wide #receiver #Drake #Mays

San Francisco 49ers sign potential future Hall of Fame receiver

San Francisco 49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan has worked with many outstanding players in his career. Many of them are either in the conversation or on track for the Hall of Fame. 49ers general manager John Lynch has added another to the mix.

According to NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo, the 49ers have signed wide receiver Mike Evans to a three-year contract. The same Evans who is tied with Jerry Rice as the only players with 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons.

Even leaving the Buccaneers is a blow for Evans after spending all 12 seasons of his career in Tampa Bay. Still, the consequences of free agency can be strange, like Tom Brady leaving New England. Still, Evans takes his Super Bowl trophy from Tampa to San Francisco, where he will try to assemble another elite core to help increase his franchise’s Lombardi count.

The 32-year-old six-time Pro Bowl receiver is coming off the least productive season of his career, as a collarbone fracture limited him to just eight games. He recorded 30 receptions for 368 yards and three touchdowns.

Still, Evans brings 13,052 yards and 108 touchdowns to San Francisco. The potential future Hall of Famer is 21st on the NFL’s all-time receiving yards list. Another 1,000-yard season would move Evans to 12th all-time, just ahead of Hall of Famers James Lofton and Chris Carter.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 projections ahead of NFL free agency

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ


#San #Francisco #49ers #sign #potential #future #Hall #Fame #receiver

Pittsburgh Steelers trade for 1,000-yard wide receiver

Last offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers traded one wide receiver for another, then watched George Pickens have a career year and become a superstar in the process. This offseason, the Steelers are potentially adding another wide receiver for Aaron Rodgers.

The Indianapolis Colts have agreed to trade wide receiver Michael Pittman Jr. to the Steelers, according to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero. The Colts agreed to a four-year, $114 million contract extension with Alec Pierce, who was set to hit the open market. Now, they are sending Pittman to free up some cap space.

The exact trade compensation is unknown, but the teams are reportedly swapping late-round draft selections. The Steelers are also signing the 28-year-old Pittman to a three-year, $59 million contract as part of the trade.

The 6-foot-4, 223-pound receiver had a peak season in 2023, catching 109 passes for 1,152 yards and four touchdowns. It was the second 1,000-yard season of his career. Pittman still recorded a respectable 80 receptions for 784 yards and seven touchdowns last season.

While he may not be a No. 1 receiver, Pittman profiles as a good fit next to DK Metcalf, giving Rodgers (if he returns) two big, strong receivers who can make plays in the red zone.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 projections ahead of NFL free agency

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Pittsburgh #Steelers #trade #1000yard #wide #receiver

San Francisco 49ers linked to potential future Hall of Fame receiver

There are changes coming to the San Francisco 49ers’ roster this offseason. Especially involving their receiving corps.

Whether it’s via release or trade, the 49ers have already revealed that former second-team All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk has played his last snap with the team. Another top target, Jauan Jennings, is set for free agency. Three others, including Kendrick Bourne and Sky Moore, also will not be under contract next season.

However, recently Rick Stroud’s Tampa Bay Times There have been suggestions that the 49ers could be one of the teams that tries to sign Mike Evans. Nevertheless, he also mentioned that the Chargers, Commanders and Giants could also be in pursuit of a potential future Hall of Famer.

Evans has played for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers his entire 12-year career. He has recorded 1,000-yard seasons in 11 of those years, with that cut short in 2025 after being limited to eight games due to injury. Evans and Hall of Fame veteran Jerry Rice are the only two players to have 11 consecutive 1,000-yard seasons in their careers.

Now, the 32-year-old six-time Pro Bowler is looking to prove that he is still capable of being a top target, and the 49ers can certainly make him the focal point of their offense. First, they have to get ahead of the competition.

RELATED: 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 projections ahead of NFL free agency

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#San #Francisco #49ers #linked #potential #future #Hall #Fame #receiver

Tennessee Titans set sights on 1,000-yard receiver

Last year, the Tennessee Titans secured their franchise quarterback by selecting Cam Ward with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Now it’s time to give him some help.

The Titans’ 30th-ranked offense could be getting a big boost. Still, with the Titans having over $90 million in cap space, they have plenty of money to spend.

According to CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones, the Titans have their sights set on upcoming free agent receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. The 25-year-old is coming off a career year with the New York Giants, where he recorded 92 receptions for 1,014 receiving yards and four touchdowns. Now he is looking to make money and the Titans may be ready to give him a blow.

“Tennessee’s lack of interest in (Mike) Evans may be because the Titans have their eyes on Giants wide receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. Sources say Nashville could be a landing spot for Robinson, and for obvious reasons. The Titans have more than $90 million in cap space and a huge need at receiver. The move to Tennessee would reunite them with their former head coach Brian Daboll. Robinson, now the offensive coordinator with the Titans, is a Kentucky native who played high school football three hours up I-65 from Music City.

CBS Sports’ Jonathan Jones on Wandell Robinson

Robinson will certainly generate interest from many other suitors. However, as Jones said, the connection with Daboll could be heavily in the Titans’ favor.

The 5-foot-8 Robinson may not be a No. 1 receiver, but he’ll be someone who can get open for Ward quickly. For a young quarterback, having a receiver they can rely on in a moment can make a huge difference. Robinson is probably coming off his first 1,000-yard season, but there could be better production around and teams like the Titans will be eager to find out.

RELATED: Tennessee Titans could move $82 million player

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Tennessee #Titans #set #sights #1000yard #receiver

Buffalo Bills seen as trade fit for young Pro Bowl receiver

The Buffalo Bills often came close to a Super Bowl appearance under Sean McDermott. Unlocking Josh Allen’s elite level of performance as NFL MVP certainly helped. Yet, despite seven consecutive playoff appearances, the Bills were not able to reach the promised berth, leading to McDermott’s dismissal after nine seasons as head coach.

Now the Bills are moving forward with a new leadership group, starting with recently promoted Brandon Beane and first-year head coach Joe Brady, who was promoted from offensive coordinator. One of the top items on Buffalo’s agenda should be strengthening the team’s receiving corps, which was clearly something McDermott would love to see as well.

Recently, ESPN’s NFL analysts Dan Graziano and Ben Solak came up with a list of the best 15 players who could hit the trade block this offseason. In doing so, he named Jacksonville Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr. as a potential trade candidate. Nevertheless, when listing teams for which Thomas could be suited, he also listed the Bills in addition to the Patriots, Steelers and Raiders.

” Selected in the first round two years ago by the previous Jaguars administration, Thomas struggled so much during his second season that the team needed to trade Jakobi Meyers at the deadline and then sign him to a long-term deal. The Jaguars also got an impressive season from Parker Washington. And while the new plan for Travis Hunter may be to focus on the cornerback position, Jacksonville still hopes he’ll make some contributions as a wide receiver.

There has been no indication that the Jaguars are planning on trading Thomas, but there are teams monitoring the situation, with the front office considering a move if the hypertalented LSU product falls far enough down the Jacksonville depth chart.

Brian Thomas on ESPN

If the Bills are willing to part with some valuable draft picks (possibly no less than a second-round pick plus change), perhaps they could pry Thomas out of Jacksonville. He appears to be an ideal fit for the receiver the Bills were looking for when they selected Keon Coleman with the 33rd overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Coleman is 6-foot-4, 215 pounds, but the 22-year-old has compiled only 67 receptions for 960 yards and 8 touchdowns in two seasons in Buffalo. Meanwhile, Thomas is 6-foot-2, 209 pounds and the 23-year-old has compiled 135 receptions for 1,989 yards and 12 touchdowns since becoming the 23rd overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.

RELATED: 5 Best Mike Evans Free Agency Landing Spots

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#Buffalo #Bills #trade #fit #young #Pro #Bowl #receiver

All-Pro receiver would ‘love’ to sign contract with Seattle Seahawks

No team should be happier than the Seattle Seahawks after coming off a stunning win in Super Bowl LX. However, like every other NFL team, there is still work to do before the next season begins.

Part of that process includes filling out the coaching staff after seeing offensive coordinator Clint Kubiak become head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. Now that the Seahawks have hired their replacement playcaller, Brian Fleury, they can focus on the roster.

There will be a number of decisions made on key free agents whose prices are sure to have increased following Seattle’s successful playoff run. Players with expiring contracts include Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III and All-Pro receiver/returner Rashid Shahid.

However, according to Martyr, he would “love” to sign a contract extension that would keep him in Seattle for years to come. He recently acknowledged this in a conversation with NFL.com’s Judy Battista and NFL Network, saying he would like to “run it back” with his teammates.

“Absolutely, absolutely, yes,” said Shaheed. “The conversation is definitely going to heat up by March. But you know, I’d love to come back. I love the experience here, I love the Pacific Northwest, and obviously, the organization is second to none. I want to get back to running it. We just won the Super Bowl, so, you know, why not?”

The 27-year-old Martyr will certainly draw interest from other teams in free agency as well. So, if the Seahawks are serious about keeping him in town, they may want to negotiate a new deal and see what he’s really worth before allowing him to hit the open market.

RELATED: Seattle Seahawks set to lose Super Bowl star?

Avatar
Dedicated NFL copywriter/editor. My work has been found on SportsNut, Sports Illustrated, Sporting News, MSN, Yahoo, and Minnesota Sports… More about Andrew Buller-Russ

#AllPro #receiver #love #sign #contract #Seattle #Seahawks