Top potential trade partners for Chris Godwin if the Bucs make a move
By Brad Smith
New England Patriots
Similar to New York, New England is another team in need of surrounding their quarterback with competent weapons around him. In this year's draft, the Patriots selected North Carolina's Drake Maye with the No. 3 pick, who figures to be the presumed starter in 2024.
During his two full seasons as the Tar Heels' starting quarterback, Maye was among the best in the nation, throwing for 8,018 passing yards, 63 touchdowns, and 16 interceptions on 64.9% completion in 26 starts. In 2022, Maye was named as the ACC's Player of the Year and Offensive Player of the Year.
While at North Carolina, Maye had his share of stout skill players around him on offense, including current NFL players Josh Downs, Ty Chandler, and Devontez Walker. That goes with saying that Maye has succeeded with above-average weapons, something the rookie quarterback may not have too much of in New England.
Last season, rookie DeMario Douglas was the Patriots' top receiver, compiling 49 catches for 561 receiving yards in 14 games. Seven-year veteran Kendrick Bourne was quite productive in 2023, catching 37 passes for 406 receiving yards and four touchdowns in just eight games.
It's worth noting that New England signed dual-threat running back Antonio Gibson in free agency. Gibson figures to slot as the No. 2 back behind starter Rhamondre Stevenson, but will play a major role as a receiver out of the backfield. In four seasons with Washington, Gibson caught 172 receptions for 1,283 yards and seven touchdowns.
With no returning players who had over 600 yards last season, Maye's job will be cut out for him in 2024, especially with Jerod Mayo taking over for Bill Belichick. Under new offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, Maye will be thrust into the starting job day one, and a receiver like Godwin would give Maye a true veteran presence on the team.