During the Patriots’ dynasty years under Bill Belichick, the team became known for making some puzzling personnel decisions. From passing on key draft prospects to avoiding big-name free agents, Belichick earned a reputation for making unpredictable—and sometimes questionable—calls regarding player evaluations.
One of his more defining tendencies was moving on from players who arguably still had value in New England. While Belichick was often proven right in the long run, some departures have remained hard to justify—none more so than the exit of Tom Brady.
Not every decision, however, carried such long-term consequences. Some, like parting ways with outside linebacker Kyle Van Noy after his second stint with the team in 2022, may still have a chance to be reversed. As the Patriots continue to search for pass rush reinforcements despite offseason moves, Van Noy is now emerging as a potential trade target.
Van Noy could make a return to New England following a standout 2024 season
The Patriots’ need for edge rush help has only intensified in the wake of trading Matthew Judon last summer. That’s why they’re increasingly being linked to trade candidates as the 2025 season approaches.
Daniel Arwas of Heavy.com recently named Van Noy as a prime trade target, noting his impressive 12.5 sacks last year with the Ravens. Arwas even suggested a low-cost trade scenario that would be tough for the Patriots to pass up—a move that could bring Van Noy back to Foxborough and bolster a defense still searching for answers.
While the Ravens haven’t publicly indicated that Kyle Van Noy is on the trade block, analyst Daniel Arwas believes his age could make him a realistic trade candidate—especially following a career-best season.
“Before joining the Ravens, Van Noy was always a reliable, versatile linebacker and edge rusher during his time with the Patriots,” Arwas noted. “But he’s never been as productive as he is now, heading into his age-34 season.”
Given New England’s pressing need for pass rush help, it would make sense for the team to pursue a low-cost, high-upside addition like Van Noy.
The veteran is already well-versed in the Patriots’ defensive system and would likely mesh well with new head coach Mike Vrabel, whose coaching style shares many similarities with Bill Belichick’s. A return to the team where Van Noy became a household name could benefit both sides.
Not only would the Patriots gain a proven pass rusher in an otherwise uncertain group, but they’d also add an experienced leader with two Super Bowl rings and exposure to elite-level teammates like Lamar Jackson and Matthew Stafford.
Despite being in his mid-30s, Van Noy hasn’t shown signs of decline, making him a logical target—provided the Ravens are open to a deal. At the very least, the Patriots would be wise to explore the possibility. And if Van Noy doesn’t pan out as a trade option, New England may need to look elsewhere—because, according to analysts, standing pat with their current edge rush group likely isn’t the best plan. Training camp next month should provide further clarity.
