5 teams who could trade for Minnesota Vikings OLB Za'Darius Smith

Team No. 5 who could trade for Minnesota Vikings OLB Za'Darius Smith

New England Patriots

One can never rule the Patriots out when it comes to trading for a veteran. Bill Belichick has done it in the past, and perhaps after mini-camps and OTAs are over, he could decide he needs one more edge rusher and gives the Vikings a call regarding Za'Darius Smith's availability.

Matthew Judon is a stallion who just had a 15.5 sack season. The Patriots also have Josh Uche, who is coming off an 11.5 sack season, and they drafted Keion White. On paper, it may look like there isn't a need, but teams can never have enough good pass rushers, and Belichick knows this.

Another factor that could favor the Patriots making this deal is that the AFC East is winnable. Other teams are closing in on the Bills, and while they are still the favorite to take the crown, it will be a very interesting division battle to watch as these other teams have improved. Aaron Rodgers also enters the division, and who is one player who loves playing against and sacking Aaron Rodgers? That would be Za'Darius Smith.

While the need on paper may not be huge, if the compensation is right, the Patriots could be a wild card team to trade for Za'Darius Smith.