The New England Patriots are in the market for an elite pass-rusher to help them put pressure on opposing defenses. How far would they be willing to go to trade for one, especially one like Pittsburgh Steelers‘ former NFL Defensive Player of the Year T.J. Watt?
Bleacher Report’s Brent Sobleski had the Patriots parting with a 2026 second-round draft pick, a 2027 third-round pick and veteran safety Jabrill Peppers to land the seven-time Pro Bowl defender.
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Sobleski would view the move as a salary dump if the Patriots emerged as the top suitor for Watt. It makes sense considering the Patriots currently have the most available salary cap space in the league. They could easily take on Watt’s contract and agree on an extension.
They also have the depth at safety to survive moving away from a reliable player like Peppers. Second-year defensive back Dell Pettus and rookie Craig Woodson have both flashed as future top options in the backfield for the Patriots. Bumping one of those two as starters to land a true difference-maker like Watt feels like a no-brainer move.
So far, the Steelers haven’t shown a willingness to move on from Watt, who is entering the final year of his contract. Watt, who is reportedly unhappy with his current deal, skipped out on mandatory minicamp. Would he be willing to miss training camp as well if an agreement isn’t reached with the Steelers?
His approach to the contract situation could decide if New England even has a chance to get involved in any real negotiations.
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This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Trade scenario sends T.J. Watt to Patriots for DB, two draft picks