Rumor: Patriots expected to flip 49ers draft pick from Jimmy Garoppolo trade for a defensive lineman

The New England Patriots might not hold on to the 2018 second round pick from the San Francisco 49ers for too much longer, according to CBS Sports’ Jason La Canfora. The 49ers sent their second round pick, which is likely to be 33rd or 34th in the draft, to the Patriots for quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo.

La Canfora expects the Patriots to trade this pick by the deadline for a defensive lineman.

The Patriots are dealing with question marks in their defensive front seven, especially with LB Dont’a Hightower out for the season. LB Shea McClellin is expected to return from the injured reserve to fill that role, though, so perhaps the Patriots will only focus on upgrading their defensive line.

Defensive tackle Alan Branch underwhelmed to start the season, while Malcom Brown is injured. Lawrence Guy has been a pleasant surprise, but this position could use help. Trey Flowers has been a rock on the edge, while Deatrich Wise, Adam Butler, and Cassius Marsh have been serviceable, but there’s definitely room for improvement, too.

The Patriots have been linked to four defensive linemen, but none of them appear to be worth the 33rd or 34th overall pick of the upcoming draft. Perhaps New England will surprise us with another blockbuster trade.