The New England Patriots are reportedly willing to part with a first-round draft pick to acquire wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Philadelphia Eagles, according to NFL insider Adam Schefter. But as the rumor mill heats up, one question is echoing through the fanbase: if you're going to give up such a valuable asset, why not aim higher?

The Patriots' decision to use this year's first-round selection on a right tackle—a position they won't need until next season—raised eyebrows. It hinted at a larger strategy: saving their future first-round pick for a blockbuster receiver trade. Schefter's report only fueled that speculation, and now analysts like Marc Bertrand of 98.5's "Zolak & Bertrand" are urging the front office to explore every option.

"If you're going to start throwing around a first-round pick, don't you want to start thinking about shooting higher?" Bertrand asked. "Don't you want to start calling around the league saying, 'Hey, our first round picks are on the table, are any of the very best receivers in the sport available?'"

Brown is undeniably talented and would fill a glaring need for New England's receiving corps. But Bertrand floated the idea of targeting Minnesota Vikings star Justin Jefferson, while another name worth considering is Houston Texans wideout Nico Collins. Collins is younger than Brown, coming off his third straight 1,000-yard season, and posted significantly more receiving yards last year. He's also a more cost-effective option—a key factor for a team managing its salary cap.

Brown's production has dipped for three consecutive seasons, while Collins is ascending. That's not to dismiss Brown's value—he's still a proven playmaker—but if the Patriots are ready to trade a first-round pick, they owe it to themselves to see what else is out there. In a league where elite receivers can transform an offense, swinging for the fences might be the smarter play.