The New England Patriots have made a trade for a wide receiver, though maybe not the big-time playmaker fans hoped for ahead of deadline day.
Adam Schefter of ESPN reported the Pats acquired Miami Dolphins third-year wide receiver Isaiah Ford.
A rare intra-division trade: Dolphins are trading WR Isaiah Ford to the New England Patriots, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 3, 2020
Ford has 18 receptions for 184 yards through seven games, though a closer look at the numbers might speak to his upside.
The 24-year-old had a much higher share of both snap counts and targets in the first few games of the year. Both those numbers have since decreased in recent weeks, seemingly making him expendable.
Of course, the Patriots are in desperate need of any depth at all at wide receiver.
Veteran wideout Julian Edelman was placed on injured reserve and could be on the shelf for some time. Second-year receiver N'Keal Harry missed Week 8 in concussion protocol, and it remains to be seen whether he will be available for Week 9 or not. Needless to say, New England just needs bodies at wide receiver.
Cam Newton and Co. still nearly got it done against the Buffalo Bills on Sunday despite all the injuries. But Newton's late fumble ultimately cost the Patriots a shot at tying or winning the game, and New England—at 2-5 on the year—is on the outside looking in when it comes to the AFC playoff picture.
Can Ford be more of an impact player in New England? He should certainly see a larger role and target share, given New England's injuries and question marks at wide receiver.
Perhaps the Patriots will continue scouring for wideouts. But Bill Belichick and Co. will hope Ford can be a playmaker.
Follow Us
Subscribe