As the 2025 NFL regular season looms, the New England Patriots are gearing up for some tough roster decisions to trim their depth chart to the mandatory 53 players. Every year, the league witnesses unexpected cuts that send shockwaves through fanbases and front offices alike, and this time, the Patriots might be at the center of a jaw-dropping move. According to Cam Garrity of Patriots Wire, one name on the chopping block could be none other than fan-favorite wide receiver DeMario Douglas—a move that would stun the NFL.
A Surprising Name on the Chopping Block
DeMario Douglas, a 2023 sixth-round pick, has quickly become a beloved figure in New England. Entering his third NFL season, the 24-year-old slot receiver is coming off a solid 2024 campaign, hauling in 66 passes for 621 yards and three touchdowns with an impressive 75.9 percent catch rate. His reliability as a pass-catcher and growing chemistry with quarterback Drake Maye have made him a cornerstone of the Patriots’ passing game. So why is his name surfacing in cut discussions?
Garrity points to the emergence of undrafted rookie Efton Chism III as a key factor. Both Douglas and Chism are smaller, slot-style receivers who thrive on designed touches to make an impact. “Keeping both Douglas and Chism would be redundant,” Garrity writes. “If the Patriots prefer to diversify their receiver archetypes—or save a roster spot for special teams—Douglas could become an unlikely trade candidate, or even a cut.”
A Crowded Receiver Room
The Patriots’ wide receiver room is a logjam, with 12 players vying for what’s likely to be six roster spots. Outside of four-time Pro Bowler Stefon Diggs, who is a lock, the competition is wide open. Douglas, despite his production, isn’t a traditional “explosive” playmaker, which could make him vulnerable if the team prioritizes versatility or special teams contributions.
Other receivers in the mix include veterans and younger talents, but none have the same level of chemistry with Maye that Douglas has developed. His role as one of the quarterback’s favorite targets could be a saving grace—or a trade chip if New England explores the market.
Trade Over Cut?
While outright cutting Douglas seems far-fetched given his production and youth, a trade could be a more realistic outcome. Teams across the NFL are always looking for reliable slot receivers, and Douglas’ 2024 stats make him an attractive option for contenders needing depth. A trade could net the Patriots a draft pick or a player to bolster another position, especially if they feel Chism can fill a similar role at a lower cost.
However, parting ways with Douglas—whether via trade or cut—would be a bold move for a team rebuilding around a young quarterback like Maye. Chemistry between a quarterback and his receivers is critical, and Douglas has proven he can be a security blanket in the passing game.
What’s Next for the Patriots?
As the roster cut deadline approaches, Patriots fans are left wondering if the team will make the shocking decision to move on from Douglas. The consensus has long held that he’s a lock for the 2025 roster, but the NFL is no stranger to surprises. If New England opts to diversify its receiver corps or prioritize special teams, Douglas could find himself on the move.
For now, the idea of Douglas not suiting up for the Patriots in their season opener feels like a stretch. But if the team does pull the trigger on this move, it could send ripples across the NFL, leaving fans and analysts alike questioning New England’s strategy. One thing is certain: the Patriots’ roster decisions will be a hot topic as Week 1 draws near.
Will Douglas stay, or will the Patriots shock the league? Only time will tell.