There are many obstacles standing in the way of the Patriots reacquiring Chandler Jones, beginning with the fact that Arizona reportedly doesn’t want to trade him.
Still, it’s fun to think about the star pass-rusher returning to New England, and helping to lead this defense back to the top of the league.
On Sunday, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported Jones requested a trade this offseason, because he’s unhappy with his contract. The nine-year veteran is entering the final season of his five-year, $82 million deal.
The Patriots traded Jones to the Cardinals five years ago for guard Jonathan Cooper and a second-round pick, which they dealt to New Orleans for a third- and fourth-round pick. Belichick used those selections on guard Joe Thuney and receiver Malcolm Mitchell.
It was a savvy deal. The money freed up from Jones allowed the Patriots to sign Stephon Gilmore and extend Dont’a Hightower.
So why would the Patriots want Jones now, when they weren’t willing to sign him years ago? It comes down to value.
Jones, 31, has remained a productive pass-rusher in Arizona, recording 61 sacks in five seasons. Since he’s up against free agency, he could be acquired at a discount.
He's also coming off a season-ending biceps injury.
Now, Jones’ 2021 salary ($15.5 million) is larger than the Patriots’ salary cap space number ($13.1. million). But extending Jones would likely push some of his 2021 money into future years, freeing up the cap space.
After a historic offseason spending spree, Belichick is clearly fixated on winning now. Jones would help anchor a potentially ferocious front-seven, alongside Matthew Judon and Hightower.
With that in mind, how about this trade?
Patriots get: Chandler Jones
Cardinals get: Patriots’ 2022 third-round pick, Sony Michel
It’s hard to foresee the Patriots surrendering a second-round pick for Jones, since they would also have to extend him. Still, there is value in a third-round selection, and Arizona may not be able to do better.
The running back-needy Cardinals could also find use for Michel. The 2018 first-round pick could be the odd man out in the Patriots’ backfield, especially if Damien Harris can stay healthy.