The New England Patriots have made significant additions to their roster through free agency, including signing safety Kevin Byard on a one-year, $9 million contract. The team now has 11 starting-caliber players on both offense and defense. While they still have positions to address, they don't need to find a starter with the 31st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. This flexibility also gives the Patriots more flexibility in the draft and potentially in any potential trades. Eagles wide receiver A.J. Brown has not yet been traded, and the Ravens backed out of a trade for Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby due to a physical issue. If the Patriots cannot acquire a high-end player via trade, their needs appear well with players expected to be available at No. 31 overall.