Patriots reportedly shopping Josh Uche in search of fifth-round pick

The Patriots scratched veteran pass rusher Joshua Uche ahead of Sunday’s home game against the New York Jets.

It was a somewhat surprising roster tweak, given New England’s struggles as of late with generating pressure against opposing quarterbacks.

But with the NFL trade deadline set for Nov. 5, New England reportedly might be protecting an appealing asset in search of draft capital.

According to MassLive’s Karen Guregian, the Patriots are dangling Uche in trade talks in hopes of landing a fifth-round pick. Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz added on Sunday morning that the 26-year-old linebacker has “been a focal point in trade talks around the NFL”, noting that Uche’s contract “is very appealing to contending teams.” 

Uche has been largely quiet so far in 2024 with two sacks over seven games. But the former 2020 third-round pick could be an affordable add for a team looking to bolster their pass rusher. Uche is currently playing on a one-year, $3 million contract and is just two seasons removed from an 11.5-sack campaign. 

Even though New England is seeking a fifth-round pick for Uche, Guregian noted that the Patriots might be setting high expectations for a situational pass rusher — even with his coveted skillset. 

“The feeling in NFL circles is the best Uche will net is a sixth-rounder in return,” Guregian wrote. “With top edge rusher Aidan Hutchinson done for the year, the Detroit Lions might be a potential suitor for the 26-year-old.”

Beyond Uche, the 1-6 Patriots could look elsewhere across their depth chart in search of trade chips. 

The Athletic’s Chad Graff reported earlier this week that defensive lineman Davon Godchaux and wide receiver Kendrick Bourne could also be dealt.  Dianna Russini of The Athletic added that both Godchaux and Bourne could be potential trade targets for the 49ers.

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Conor Ryan is a staff writer covering the Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, and Red Sox for Boston.com, a role he has held since 2023.

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