NFL trade rumors: New England Patriots could pivot to $71,550,000 former San Francisco 49ers star if AJ Brown deal doesn’t happen

The New England Patriots still need a clear No. 1 wide receiver going into the 2026 season. Right now, most of the talk is about a possible trade for AJ Brown. But that move is not easy to complete. Philadelphia does not want to take on a big cap hit before June 1, which makes a deal harder to finalize.Because of that, the Patriots are also looking at other options. If the trade does not happen, they could turn to free agency. Deebo Samuel is one of the main names to watch. He is now a free agent after his short run with Washington ended. For a young team led by Drake Maye, adding an experienced player like Samuel could make sense.The New England Patriots’ plan is simple. They first try to trade for AJ Brown. He is a top receiver and has past links with people in the Patriots setup. But the Eagles are not eager to move him right now because of money issues tied to his contract.If the trade talks slow down or the price becomes too high, New England can move to free agency. Samuel is available after his deal with Washington Commanders ended, leaving a $12.3 million dead-cap hit behind for the Commanders.Deebo Samuel is likely to land somewhere in the $15-18 million per year range. That said, he might be open to a shorter deal at around $12-15 million annually for two or three years. A setup like that works well for both side, it gives the Patriots some flexibility, while also giving Samuel a real opportunity to step into a team that could use his skill set.This also fits with Drake Maye’s rookie contract, which runs through 2028. The Patriots can use Samuel now and decide later what to do at the position. New England’s current wide receiver group is young but does not have a clear top player. • Starters: Romeo Doubs, Kayshon Boutte • Key depth: Mack Hollins, DeMario Douglas, Kyle Williams, Efton Chism III, Jeremiah Webb, John Jiles • Tight ends: Hunter Henry, CJ Dippre, Julian Hill, Marshall LangThere is no clear No. 1 receiver here. The group focuses more on speed and routes than strength after the catch. With Stefon Diggs no longer on the team, the need for a proven player is clear.Washington Commanders are moving in a different direction. The team has already taken the cap hit from Samuel’s contract, so letting him leave is the easier choice.The Commanders are expected to build around players like Terry McLaurin, Luke McCaffrey, and Jaylin Lane. The team wants younger and faster options. Paying a 30-year-old receiver does not fit that plan.Deebo Samuel brings a skill set the Patriots do not have right now. He can catch, run, and create yards after the catch.He has averaged 13.6 yards per catch in his career. He also has more than 1,200 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns. That makes him different from most wide receivers.In 2025, he had 72 catches for 727 yards and five touchdowns with Washington. He also added 75 rushing yards and one touchdown. These numbers are lower than his peak, but he can still produce.For Drake Maye, having a player like Samuel would help a lot. He can turn short passes into big gains and make things easier for a young quarterback.Deebo Samuel would get a fresh start in New England. He would likely be one of the main targets in the offense.His 2021 season showed how good he can be when used well. Even if he does not reach that level again, he can still play an important role.A short deal also works in his favor. He can play well, then look for another contract later.Pros • Gives the Patriots a clear top receiver • Strong after-the-catch ability • Can also contribute in the running game • Short deal keeps future options open • Helps a young quarterback with easier playsCons • Age is a concern at 30 • Recent numbers are lower than before • Injury history is a risk • Could affect roles in the offense • Money could be used elsewhereThe New England Patriots would get the most benefit. They add a proven player without giving up draft picks.Samuel gets a clear role and a chance to rebuild his value.Washington keeps cap space and focuses on younger players.This move comes down to balance. Trading for AJ Brown would cost more. Signing Deebo Samuel is a smaller risk.For the New England Patriots, it improves the offense without giving up future assets. For Samuel, it is a chance to prove himself again. For Washington, it closes a short chapter and allows a reset.If the AJ Brown trade does not happen, Samuel could quickly become one of New England’s main targets in free agency.