Patriots Have Interest In Chargers’ Receivers Keenan Allen, Mike Williams?

With the Los Angeles Chargers in a nasty cap situation, the New England Patriots could pry a play-making receiver away from them.

The New England Patriots have been somewhat active in free agency so far, but have yet to make a true splash.

However, that could be changing soon.

According to Doug Kyed of The Boston Herald, the Patriots have engaged in trade talks with the Los Angeles Chargers surrounding star receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.

Now, that begs the question, why would the Chargers be looking to trade their top two receivers? They wouldn't in an ideal world, but unfortunately, the reality of the NFL is often far from ideal.

The Chargers find themselves nearly $25 million over the salary cap for next season, by far the most of any team in the league right now. They'll have to make some difficult decisions to get out of that jam, and best believe that other teams like the Patriots are closely watching their every move.

Both Allen and Williams are undoubtedly great receivers, but both also come with their share of concerns. Allen turns 33 next month, while the 29-year-old Williams has dealt with his fair share of injuries recently, including an ACL tear that caused him to miss nearly all of the 2023 season.

Still, there's plenty to like about both players, and L.A.'s current situation means that New England may be able to get one of them on the cheap.

"The upside: because of the cap relief it would provide the Chargers, acquiring either receiver via trade should only cost a late-round pick, if anything," The Boston Herald writes. "Both players are also entering contract years, meaning if things go south next season, the Pats can let them walk or get a head start on negotiations if they exceed expectations."

The Patriots desperately need an upgrade at receiver, and so far, they haven't done much to address that need. They brought back Kendrick Bourne on a three-year deal, but also released DeVante Parker and may soon part ways with JuJu Smith Schuster as well.

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If they are able to pry Allen or Williams away from the Chargers, or simply wait for L.A. to cut them, they could get the upgrade they need for a bargain price.