Main Story

Adonai Mitchell says steady preparation helped him earn a breakout opportunity with the Jets, while Patriots coach Mike Vrabel praised Drake Maye’s performance despite key receivers being sidelined. Across the NFL, players’ growing business savvy and constant media scrutiny are contributing to more trade activity.

By the Numbers
  • 60 NFL trades have taken place since the start of the year.
  • Mitchell had 142 receiving yards in Week 8.
  • Maye ranks sixth in the NFL with 1,983 passing yards and 15 touchdowns.
Yes, But

More trades don’t mean every player can force a move. Agents say each situation depends on trust and respect among the player, agent and general manager—and on handling negotiations without embarrassing the team’s front office.

State of Play
  • Mitchell is focused on maintaining the preparation that earned him a larger opportunity in New York.
  • Maye is producing despite the absence of several top Patriots receivers. Vrabel also expressed concern about tight end Hunter Henry’s foot injury, though Henry appeared to be in good spirits.
  • DeMario Douglas has been New England’s most-targeted receiver since Week 4 and praised Maye’s growth.
Bottom Line

Preparation is paying off for Mitchell, while Maye is building a strong case as a top-tier quarterback—even with a depleted receiving corps. Meanwhile, player movement is becoming more visible, but successful trades still hinge on relationships and negotiation.