The New England Patriots' search for offensive firepower will likely soon shift to the trade market.
Coming into the offseason, the Patriots had high hopes of landing a number-one receiver with their boatload of available cap space.
But Tee Higgins was extended by the Cincinnati Bengals after being franchise-tagged to keep him from hitting the open market, while Chris Godwin took a hometown discount with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
It was clear that the Patriots wanted both players, but making an effort doesn't count for much if that effort doesn't succeed. Quarterback Drake Maye needs better skill players to support him in his sophomore season, and the Patriots have to take some swings to find them.