Patriots mailbag: Pats to be buyers or sellers at NFL trade deadline?

In this mailbag edition, Brian Hines analyzes the New England Patriots' potential approach to the upcoming NFL trade deadline ahead of their game against the Green Bay Packers. Hines expects the Patriots to act as modest buyers by seeking minor upgrades rather than selling key players. He projects that contributors like defensive lineman Christian Barmore and cornerback Carlton Davis will remain on the roster through the deadline.

Hines argues that selling for draft capital makes more sense during the offseason, especially with Drake Maye and head coach Mike Vrabel keeping the team competitive. Additionally, he clarifies that running back TreVeyon Henderson's recent absence from practice is due to an illness rather than trade discussions, and he advises against trading backup quarterback Tommy DeVito.