The New England Patriots might consider acquiring the star wide receiver from the Cincinnati Bengals in a surprising trade offer.

The New England Patriots find themselves in uncharted territory, experiencing an unprecedented situation for the first time in over two decades. Since the year 2000, the team has encountered only three losing seasons, but none have been as challenging as the current one. With a record of 4-11, they currently sit at the bottom of the AFC East with two games remaining in the season.

The realization of this challenging situation feels almost implausible, especially considering the dynasty that had been built over the years.

For the first time since assuming the head coaching position with the Patriots, there is genuine speculation that one of the greatest coaches in NFL history may part ways with the franchise he has been synonymous with for so long after the 2023 season.

The 2023 Patriots, for the first time since their head coach took charge, are experiencing authentic speculation about the potential departure of one of the greatest coaches in NFL history after the conclusion of the season. This season, the Patriots have confronted significant challenges, especially in the quarterback position.

At the start of the season, the Patriots had high expectations that Mac Jones would continue to build on his previous success. However, he experienced a significant setback under the new offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien’s system, leading the team to turn to Bailey Zappe. Although Zappe has performed better, it’s highly likely that the Patriots will be seeking a new quarterback in 2024.

While the team’s defense has generally been reliable, the offense is lacking in weapons. Currently, their top wide receiver is Demario Douglas, who has accumulated 44 receptions for 517 yards but hasn’t scored a single touchdown.

The second-leading receiver for the Patriots is tight end Hunter Henry, who has made 42 catches for 419 yards and scored six touchdowns. It’s evident that a significant portion of the offensive struggles stems from below-average quarterback performance. Whether there is a change in coaching and management, or if Bill Belichick remains at the helm, the foremost priority will be securing a franchise-level quarterback.

With only two games remaining in the regular season, the Patriots are positioned to secure the No. 4 pick in the NFL Draft. This places them in an advantageous position to potentially acquire a top-tier quarterback such as Drake Maye or Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, assuming that USC QB Caleb Williams is already selected.

Irrespective of the choice for the quarterback position—whether it’s a young rookie from the NFL Draft or a veteran obtained through free agency—the Patriots are urgently in need of a top-tier wide receiver to rejuvenate one of the least effective offenses in the league this year.