The New England Patriots have started off the season 1-2 after dropping their last two games to the Seattle Seahawks and New York Jets just days apart.
If New England wants a chance at turning things around and stopping their skid before it gets too out of hand, they may have to look for help outside of the building.
In a recent post, ESPN's Dan Graziano listed the Patriots as a potential landing spot for Carolina Panthers wide receiver Diontae Johnson and Indianapolis Colts linebacker E.J. Speed via trade.
New England's wide receiver room isn't exactly the most talented group in the league, and they've combined for just 21 receptions for 169 yards and a touchdown in three weeks.
K.J. Osborn is their most accomplished healthy wideout, and he'd be a good team's third option at the position.
Johnson, 28, has experience being a team's top wideout, even if it's not ideal. In 2021, he recorded 107 receptions for 1,161 yards and eight touchdowns with the Pittsburgh Steelers, and so far in 2024 with Carolina, he's caught 13 passes for 156 yards and a score.
Adding Johnson and getting Kendrick Bourne back off PUP would certainly help this passing attack.
On the defensive side of the ball, New England lost Ja'Whaun Bentley for the year with a torn pectoral back in Week 2, so they'll need help in the middle of the defense.
Speed, 29, has starting experience, as he appeared in 16 games and started 11 for Indianapolis in 2023, recording 102 tackles (12 for a loss), three forced fumbles, two quarterback hits and a sack. Through three games this year, he's recorded 34 tackles and a quarterback hit.
The Patriots should get Sione Takitaki back from PUP soon, so the move may not be as pressing, but it wouldn't hurt to add more talent.
MORE PATRIOTS NEWS
NFL insider lists dark horse team Bill Belichick can land with in 2025
Former Patriots OC explains why he left New England
Patriots name new defensive captain
NFL picks, predictions: Patriots vs. 49ers
