ESPN’s Dan Graziano listed Jacksonville Jaguars WR Brian Thomas Jr. as a possible fit for the New England Patriots. Graziano published a report listing the Patriots, Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Las Vegas Raiders as potential fits.
Thomas was selected by the Jaguars in the first round of the 2024 draft with the 24th overall selection. He had a breakout rookie campaign, recording 87 receptions for 1,282 yards and 10 touchdowns. The LSU star averaged 14.7 yards per reception and had 133 passes thrown his way.
2025 saw a bit of a dip in production. He had 48 receptions on 91 targets for 707 yards and two touchdowns. Had multiple factors that led to a decline in production. He had a high ankle sprain that he suffered in week nine against the Las Vegas Raiders. This forced him to miss three games. He was also playing through a wrist injury that could have contributed to his efficiency problems.
The Jaguars also brought in several wide receivers last season. Jakobi Meyers, Travis Hunter, and Parker Washington were new weapons for the Jaguars. This left Thomas as the odd man out at times.
Graziano believes the Patriots could be among the teams that could give him a fresh start, as he noted in his column on Wednesday. He fully specified that there is no indication that the Jaguars would be planning to trade Thomas, and that it could be a possibility based on depth.
There has been no indication that trading Thomas is something the Jaguars are planning, but there are teams monitoring the situation in case the hypertalented LSU product has fallen far enough down the Jacksonville depth chart that the front office would consider a move.
This is a move that could make sense for the Patriots. The team is looking for additional wide receiver depth, and Thomas would be a prime candidate for what they’re looking for. He can be a playmaker and has that explosive playmaking ability. He is only 23 years old. This could give him the option to grow with the Patriots organization. This is similar to the trajectory of the Patriots’ offense overall. They have young pieces that they can build around, such as quarterback Drake Maye and wide receiver Kyle Williams. Thomas could be another piece of the offensive equation.
Patriots Have Been In This Situation Before
Of course, this is contingent on the Jaguars wanting to move him. Injuries are definitely a concern with Thomas, as he has already had a bunch to start off his career. However, he could be worth taking a flyer on, as he would be another explosive weapon for the team. It’s one of those situations where the Patriots could have a low-risk high-reward situation. They tried that with Stefon Diggs last year, and were successful.
Now, they would be taking a chance on an even younger receiver with a ton of upside. The Patriots already have the base of their offense figured out. Now it’s just about adding to it. Thomas would be a solid for a team looking to support its young quarterback.
Patriots Named as Potential Fit For High-Upside Offensive Star