As the NFL draft approaches, the New England Patriots are gearing up to address some pressing needs on their roster. The offensive line and edge positions are in need of upgrades, and the wide receiver slot has become a priority following the release of Stefon Diggs, their standout wideout from 2025.
Enter Curtis Samuel, a potential cost-effective addition suggested by Daniel Fisher of NESN. Samuel, a veteran with nine years of NFL experience, spent the 2025 season with the Buffalo Bills. While he might not be the splashy name that gets fans jumping out of their seats, Samuel could provide some much-needed depth for Mike Vrabel's offense.
With Diggs gone, the Patriots are on the hunt for a top-tier receiver. Rumors of a trade for the Eagles' A.J.
Brown have been swirling, but such a move would likely require significant draft capital. Drafting a promising receiver is another path they could take.
While signing Samuel won't completely fill the void left by Diggs, depth is critical, especially with the inevitable injuries that occur throughout the season.
Samuel's potential impact on the Patriots' offense is up for debate. Though he might be a budget-friendly option, the return on investment, even at a veteran minimum, remains uncertain. Daniel Fisher sees Samuel as a worthwhile addition for training camp, where he could compete for a spot on the roster.
Last season, Samuel's stats weren't eye-popping-seven receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown over six games. However, his career numbers of 3,717 receiving yards and 24 touchdowns across 111 games show he can contribute at the NFL level. Spotrac lists his market value at $1.8 million per year, making him a financially viable option for the Patriots.
The Patriots have had success with players like Mack Hollins and Reggie Gilliam, who came with stronger resumes than Samuel. However, Samuel's limited production with the Bills last year might not ignite much excitement among Patriots fans.
Ultimately, the Patriots might find better value by investing in a higher-caliber player or selecting a promising wideout in the draft. While the idea of a cost-effective addition is appealing, Samuel may not be the right fit for what the Patriots need at this moment.