Re-Routed: Patriots Interested in Trade for Jets' Receiver?

After not signing DeAndre Hopkins, the New England Patriots are reportedly in the market for New York Jets' receiver Denzel Mims.

FOXBORO — As the vision of receiver DeAndre Hopkins fades from their rearview mirror, the New England Patriots are keeping their options open for upgrading their offense in 2023. 

From hosting running back Leonard Fournette for a workout, to being recent betting favorites to acquire four-time Pro Bowler Dalvin Cook, the Pats are seemingly in the market for at least one more offensive weapon prior to next week's start of training camp. New England, per a Wednesday report from Heavy Sports, is one of two teams considereded “in the mix” for New York Jets receiver Denzel Mims. The former Baylor product was reportedly on the trading block earlier in the day by several media outlets. 

Mims was selected by the Jets in the second round (No. 59 overall) of the 2020 NFL Draft. After missing most of training camp due to a hamstring injury in his rookie season, he was placed on injured reserve in mid-September. He made his NFL debut in Week 7 against the Buffalo Bills and had four receptions for 42 yards. He missed only one additional game for the Jets in Week 14 game, due to a personal issue. He finished his rookie year with 357 yards on 23 catches. 

On the heels of an eight-catch, 133-yard (11 games) performance in 2021, Mims requested a trade from the Jets in August 2022. Surprisingly, Mims was not traded, and played in 10 games (four starts). He finished with 11 catches for 186 yards and no touchdowns.

Despite an underwhelming statistical resume, Sims is a physical receiver, capable of making an impact within the Patriots offense. The 25-year-old is known for quickness at the top of his routes, and is at his best when making catches over the middle. As such, his struggles have been primarily linked to a lack of focus and consistency. With New England, Mims could thrive in the vertical passing schemes under new Pats offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien.

Of course, pulling off the elusive intra-divisional trade is rare. New England last did so in April 2022, when they acquired receiver DeVante Parker and a 2022 fifth-round pick from the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a 2023 third-round pick. Mims is expected to be released by the Jets if they are unable to find a trade partner.

The Patriots are set to host their first organized training camp practice on July 26. While it is not a certainty, it is looking probable that at least one new face on offense will be joining them in the coming days. 

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