After the Bill Belichick era in 2024, the New England Patriots quickly reorganized and are back as one of the most exciting teams across the league. After a disappointing 4-13 season under Jerod Mayo, the Patriots roped in former linebacker Mike Vrabel. The move paid immediate dividends. Now with a 6-2 record, the Patriots are planning something big after trading away DE Kyle Duggar and safety Keion White.

GM Eliot Wolf and the Patriots management have been busy making major moves ahead of the November 4 NFL trade deadline (4 p.m. ET). So far, New England has extended cornerback and punt returner Marcus Jones to a three-year, $36 million extension. Looking at outgoings, the Patriots traded Duggar to the Pittsburgh Steelers, whereas White completed a move to the San Francisco 49ers, leading to $60.5M in the salary cap.

This was primarily possible as New England got away from Dugger’s $10.75 million base salary in 2026, and an additional $1.5 million in roster bonuses. This move further benefits them in 2027, when Dugger would earn a base salary of $11.75 million with a $1.5 million roster bonuses. This allows New England to be buyers as they have the most cap space in the NFL.

The massive cap space and the two 2026 sixth-round picks received via the White and Duggar trade allow them to target a running back and veteran pass rusher, as per ESPN. With the Patriots leading the AFC East ahead of the five-time defending division champion Buffalo Bills, these moves could certainly kick off another winning era in New England.

What moves will Mike Vrabel’s Patriots make ahead of trade deadline?

Mike Vrabel has made it clear that the Patriots will be eyeing upgrades ahead of the November 4 trade deadline. The biggest trade targets for the Patriots could come in the wide receiver department, as per ESPN’s Ben Solak. The running back area also needed reinforcements. But since the Pats signed practice squad running back Terrell Jennings to the 53-man roster and added Rushawn Baker and Jonathan Ward to the practice squad, this problem is now resolved.

Hence, New England could target New Orleans Saints wide receiver Rashid Shaheed. The 27-year-old WR has looked great on the field with 39 receptions on 57 targets for 431 yards and two touchdowns. These are certain signs of a career year, which allows New England to go all in on Drake Maye’s epic season.

Looking at the financials of the deal, Shaheed is a cost-effective target because of his expiring contract, making him an unrestricted free agent in 2026. This allows the Patriots to get the 27-year-old for a cheaper price. Further, New England could then look at extending Shaheed based on his performances and secure him on a long-term deal next season.

With these moves, the New England Patriots could be back in contention almost immediately in this new era after the exit of legends like Bill Belichick and Tom Brady.