ESPN proposes Patriots trades involving Kayshon Boutte, Kayvon Thibodeaux

The New England Patriots are entering the 2026 season looking to avenge their Super Bowl loss. Throughout training camp, head coach Mike Vrabel and company are evaluating all aspects of the roster.

As they look around, there are some discrepancies at both pass rush and wide receiver. When it comes to fixing the hole at edge rusher, the Patriots have been urged to trade a 2027 third-round pick to the New York Giants for Kayvon Thibodeaux and a 2027 fifth-round pick, via Seth Walder of ESPN.

“The Patriots fit the bill and then some, because Thibodeaux offers long-term upside if New England decides to re-sign him,” Walder wrote. “The Patriots’ current edge rushers are Harold Landry III and Dre’Mont Jones. At this stage of their careers (Landry is 30, Jones 29), they’re better fits as No. 2 and No. 3 edge rushers, respectively, on a contending team. Thibodeaux hasn’t been good enough yet to be New England’s unquestioned top edge rusher, but he possesses the promise to develop into that.”

The Giants took Arvell Reese fifth overall in the 2026 NFL Draft. They still have Brian Burns and Abdul Carter on the roster as well. Thibodeaux is a bit of an odd man out and would have a much larger role on a different team. In New England specifically, Thibodeaux would be a crucial part of Vrabel’s pass rush.

At wide receiver, the Patriots signed Romeo Doubs and traded for AJ Brown. With other pass catchers like DeMario Douglas and Mack Hollins, Kayshon Boutte may no longer have a spot in New England. Which is why Walder suggests the Patriots deal Boutte to the Washington Commanders for a 2027 fifth-round pick.

“That profile might not be appealing for every team, but it could work for Washington. The Commanders badly need another reliable wide receiver behind No. 1 wideout Terry McLaurin,” Walder wrote. “Boutte might not be perfect but would likely be their No. 2 right away. His ability to take the top off the defense could be ideal in opening up intermediate space for McLaurin to work.”

Set to be a free agent after the season, the Patriots have to make a crucial decision when it comes to Boutte. With the depth they’ve now accumulated at wide receiver, their best option could be trading him away.