Patriots’ Struggles to Secure a Top Wide Receiver Continue as Free Agency Progresses
The 2025 NFL free agency period is in full swing, with teams actively making roster adjustments to address key needs. However, some organizations, including the New England Patriots, still have significant gaps to fill. One of the most pressing issues for the Patriots is their need for a true No. 1 wide receiver.
Despite the availability of several promising options on the market, New England has been unable to secure a top-tier wideout. Chris Godwin, a primary target, decided to re-sign with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Meanwhile, Davante Adams is set to join the Los Angeles Rams, and DK Metcalf was traded from the Seattle Seahawks to the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Tee Higgins No Longer a Likely Option for the Patriots
The #Bengals have made significant progress on massive contract extensions with star WRs Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins, and both could be finalized in the coming days, sources tell me and @TomPelissero.
There is work to be done. But Joe Burrow’s wish is close to coming true. pic.twitter.com/rcIq2HHDiz
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 14, 2025
Even after missing out on those key players, there was still hope for the Patriots to acquire an elite receiver in Tee Higgins. However, recent developments have made that possibility increasingly unlikely.
The Cincinnati Bengals placed the franchise tag on Higgins for the second consecutive year, signaling their intent to retain him. This move left the door open for a potential tag-and-trade scenario, where New England could have explored acquiring the 26-year-old playmaker.
However, according to reports, the Bengals and Higgins have made significant progress toward a long-term contract extension. If finalized in the coming days, this deal would officially take Higgins off the market, eliminating any chance of him joining the Patriots. This latest setback adds to the growing list of top wide receivers signing elsewhere, further complicating New England’s search for a game-changing talent.
The NFL Draft as a Last Resort for the Patriots’ Wide Receiver Needs
With free agency not yielding the desired results, the Patriots now turn their attention to the 2025 NFL Draft as their best remaining option to secure a premier wide receiver. Fortunately, several highly rated prospects are expected to be available when New England makes its selection.
The Patriots hold the No. 4 overall pick in the draft, positioning them well to select one of the top wide receiver prospects. Missouri’s Luther Burden III, Texas’ Matthew Golden, and Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan are among the best wideouts in this year’s draft class. Each of these players is projected to still be available when the Patriots are on the clock, giving them an opportunity to address their pressing need at the position.
Patriots Face a Critical Decision
With their free agency targets slipping away, the Patriots now face a crucial decision in the coming weeks. If they are unable to acquire a veteran receiver through other means, the draft may become their only viable path to securing a high-impact playmaker. As the offseason progresses, all eyes will be on New England’s next move to strengthen their receiving corps and provide a much-needed boost to their offense.