The NFL trade deadline is a month away, and the Patriots might have to make moves this season to secure assets for next season.
Kendrick Bourne is a possible veteran who might be better suited on a contender. New England head coach Jerod Mayo also might choose to let go of players his predecessor Bill Belichick drafted to make way for new talent.
According to Jason La Canfora of the Washington Post on Friday, the Patriots "let it be known that Tyquan Thornton is available."
The Baylor product was drafted 50th overall in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft. Even at the time, it was a questionable pick made by Belichick. However, Thornton potentially had upside, especially with his record unofficial time in the 40-yard dash.
That upside never materialized and still hasn't been seen through four games in his third season, except on the practice field and in training camp. The 24-year-old dealt with multiple injuries in his NFL career, and he's trended toward N'Keal Harry territory of infamous Belichick draft busts.
Another team could convince themselves that Thornton could help them and inquire about the wide receiver. It's unlikely the Patriots get a comparable return for the 2022 second-round pick, but a rebuilding team needs as many assets as possible. Plus, if Thornton does get traded, it could open up more playing time or opportunities for rookie Javon Baker.
