In a surprising world, the New England Patriots could trade JaWhaun Bentley this upcoming NFL Draft this offseason. According to reports, JaWhaun Bentley could be a solid trade piece for the team since the New England Patriots are revamping their entire pass rusher since head coach Mike Vrabel took over the team. Ever since he stepped into the building, the Patriots have been aggressive in adding linebackers to the unit signing Robert Spillane and Jack Gibbens. For Bentley, this could be the perfect opportunity to establish his presence elsewhere with a new team that could shine a light on him as he still has plenty of upside.
Originally selected in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft, the former Purdue product began his career alongside Dont’a Hightower and Kyle Van Noy, recording four solo tackles and one tackle for a loss in his debut against the Houston Texans. Bentley helped the team finish first in the AFC East for two back-to-back seasons becoming a monster middle linebacker in his third year and continuing to progress. The versatile rusher signed a new extension in 2023 after putting on an excellent performance the previous year, however, an injury kept him out of the contest for the rest of last year.
Bentley is still one of the better linebackers in the league with a lot of upside but these three teams could pursue him if the Patriots decide to shift their regime a different way.
Breaking: Surprise JaWhaun Bentley Trade Could Happen This NFL Draft – Chargers, Commanders and Panthers Logical Fits
Fresh Air in LA
The Los Angeles Chargers could use another linebacker this upcoming season. Last year, it was a mess getting anything out of Joey Bosa who is now with the Buffalo Bills but they need a capable youngster that’s going to stick around. Khalil Mack is returning for what could be his final season in the league and there is no other person a better fit than Bentley to fill those shoes. The Chargers will draft a new edge rusher either way in this year’s draft but Bentley should be able to provide a lot of upside for the unit.
He isn’t going to post the same high-level tackles depending on how he recovers, but he may be a strong addition to what Jim Harbaugh is looking for. After losing Poona Ford, it could become a big deal if they can’t find a replacement to ram the offensive line. Bentley might start off slow but it’s how he maneuvers, it’s what makes him a worthy trade candidate for the Chargers.
Other Potential Fits
The same can be said about the Washington Commanders and their middle linebacker Frankie Luvu. These both could be a problem for the coverage and they have the ability to stop the short-end passes from quarterbacks. While they’re bringing back Bobby Wagner, they need some type of replacement for Dante Fowler Jr. and Bentley could fit well into what Washington wants in an aggressive defense.
Meanwhile, the Panthers’ biggest need this offseason is a linebacker since Jadeveon Clowney is getting older and Josey Jewell needs more experience. Bentley has both the veteran status and experience that could culminate together to make something finally happen for this Carolina defense. They had the worst unit last year but Bentley could change things around as long as new signee Tershawn Wharton could open up those holes down the middle.
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