League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

ESPN predicts New England Patriots will pursue edge rusher trade

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 3:08 PM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

ESPN predicts New England Patriots will pursue edge rusher trade

Summary

ESPN analyst Seth Walder predicts the New England Patriots will acquire an edge rusher before the 2026 trade deadline. The projection stems from concerns regarding the current pass rush depth as the team enters the season. Harold Landry III is starting the year on the physically unable to perform list, leaving the unit with Dre'Mont Jones, Elijah Ponder, and rookie Gabe Jacas. While the team possesses interior line strength from Christian Barmore and Milton Williams, the front office may seek additional exterior help to support newly extended cornerback Christian Gonzalez. The Patriots intend to evaluate current roster options early in the season before deciding whether to spend draft capital on personnel reinforcements.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Market Watch

•Seth Walder forecasts a Patriots trade for an edge rusher before the deadline.
•Harold Landry III begins the season on the physically unable to perform list.
•The defense features interior pressure from Christian Barmore and Milton Williams.
•New England recently signed cornerback Christian Gonzalez to a four-year extension.
•The team will monitor the development of Elijah Ponder and Gabe Jacas early in the season.

Latest Updates

3:08 PMYahoo Sports — ESPN predicts Patriots will make major trade during 2026 NFL season

What they're saying

"
ESPN’s Seth Walder predicts the Patriots will trade for an edge rusher before the deadline as questions surround New England’s pass rush.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

New England Patriots Philadelphia Eagles NFL Football