The Patriots are treating this season simply as a bridge to the next, which tells you that right now team leadership believes they can’t compete.

According to reports, Judon, disgruntled in the final year of his contract, is traded by New England to Atlanta for a 2025 third-round draft pick.

New England’s defensive lineman is on the field as a spectator two weeks after being diagnosed with blood clots.

The New England linebacker might be frustrated by his $6.5 million salary this year, but on Tuesday he shined in a joint practice with the Eagles.

Demario ‘Pop’ Douglas might stand at just 5-8, but is one of many receivers who could step up for the Patriots.

Gonzalez showed potential as a rookie to be a shutdown corner before getting injured, but a slow start in camp leaves him with something to prove.

Smith-Schuster signed a three-year, $25.5 million contract with $16 million guaranteed with the Patriots last offseason, but was buried on the depth chart.

Drake Maye looks good –  but only for one series  – while Joe Milton III, Jeremiah Pharms Jr. and the front seven step up for New England.

Apparently Aiyuk did not want to play for New England, saying no to a trade, and the Patriots are left with their middle-of-the-road group of receivers.

New England is rumored to have the framework in place to make a trade to acquire 49ers receiver Brandon Aiyuk … but so does Cleveland.