Patriots, Panthers Have Discussed Trade for No. 8 Pick in 2021 NFL Draft

The New England Patriots could make a big move up the draft board Thursday.

The Pats and Panthers have done "some groundwork" on a possible trade for Carolina's No. 8 pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, according to Sports Illustrated.

The Patriots aren't the only squad looking to move up in the draft, but they're reportedly eyeing Ohio State's Justin Fields, according to NFL Network.

Several teams have been making calls about getting into the top 10 of next week’s NFL Draft — including the #Patriots, who could have their eyes on Ohio State QB Justin Fields if he begins to slide. @gmfb @nflnetwork pic.twitter.com/GjJazJXZQp
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) April 26, 2021

Under Bill Belichick, the Pats have historically been prone to trading down in the draft, so it would certainly be a surprise if they finally pull the trigger to shoot up the draft board.

A move from No. 15 up to to the eighth spot will be pricey. The Patriots have plenty of picks this year, but they'll almost certainly have to surrender future picks — likely a future first-rounder.

The two top QBs on the Patriots' roster right now are Cam Newton and Jarrett Stidham. Newton is a former MVP but has been dragged down by injuries recently, while Stidham is still largely unproven.

While Fields looks like a future star, he could tumble down the draft board... which makes the Patriots a nice landing spot for a rookie passer.

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