After missing out on top targets Chris Godwin and DK Metcalf, the New England Patriots became aggressive in their search for veteran wide receiver help. With a clear need to bolster their passing attack, the team is scouring both the free-agent and trade markets for experienced talent. One name that has recently emerged as a serious option is former Seattle Seahawks All-Pro, who was recently released by his longtime team.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the Patriots currently have another talented wide receiver “on their radar” as a potential signing. While New England has already hosted former Buffalo Bills star Stefon Diggs for a visit, the team has yet to finalize a deal, leaving the door open for other veteran options like Lockett. Diggs remains a possibility, but if he opts to sign elsewhere, the Patriots could shift their focus toward acquiring the former Seahawks standout.
Tyler Lockett, a third-round pick in 2015, has played all 10 seasons of his career in Seattle, becoming one of the most productive and reliable receivers in franchise history. The one-time All-Pro and Pro Bowler has amassed 8,594 receiving yards and 61 touchdowns on 661 receptions over his decade-long tenure. From 2019 to 2023, he was a model of consistency, racking up over 100 targets in each season and producing four consecutive 1,000-yard campaigns.
However, his 2024 season saw a steep decline in production. With the emergence of Jaxon Smith-Njigba and the Seahawks shifting toward a younger, more cost-effective roster, Lockett saw his role diminish significantly. Last season, he managed just 600 receiving yards and two touchdowns on 49 receptions, marking his lowest statistical output since 2017. As a result, Seattle opted to move on, releasing him in a move that signaled a changing of the guard.
For the Patriots, Lockett wouldn’t be expected to return to his Pro Bowl form, but he could provide a valuable veteran presence in a wide receiver room filled with inexperienced and unproven pass-catchers. With rookie quarterback Drake Maye potentially set to take over as the face of the franchise, New England could use a dependable, intelligent route-runner who can help stabilize the offense. More than just a pass-catching threat, Lockett could serve as a mentor for the Patriots’ young receiving corps, bringing leadership and experience to the locker room.
While New England remains in search of a true No. 1 receiver, adding Lockett could be a smart short-term move to strengthen their depth and provide an immediate boost in the passing game. Whether or not the Patriots ultimately pull the trigger remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: they cannot afford to enter the 2024 season without making significant improvements at wide receiver.
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