This Patriots-Bucs Trade For OJ Howard Could Actually Work

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers used the No. 17 overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft on tight end O.J. Howard. He was in a prolific passing offense with Jameis Winston in 2019 and proceeded to finish with only 459 receiving yards.

That reportedly has Howard on the trading block one week before the start of the 2020 draft. One team that should be looking to offer up some picks for Howard is the New England Patriots.

The Patriots have 12 picks including three in the third round and four in the sixth round. Bill Belichick should immediately offer up a third and (if necessary) a sixth to the Bucs and see if they accept. Considering their enormous draft capital, New England can afford to part with a few late selections.

Adding Howard would fill a huge need as the Patriots only have Matt LaCosse and Ryan Izzo on the roster at tight end. The former first-round pick entered the league with high expectations and is still only 25 years old. Belichick may see him as a player who just needs proper coaching to reach his full potential.

Having 12 picks allows the Patriots to be aggressive in trade talks. The Bucs would be wise to accept a third and a sixth in exchange for Howard if there is no intention on keeping him past his rookie deal.