What happened: Wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk is preparing for a return to the NFL, per Yahoo Sports. The development follows earlier trade discussions involving New England around his previous $120 million contract framework.

Why it matters: New England sits at 5-3 and holds the seventh seed in the AFC following a 24-19 victory over the Miami Dolphins. Any movement in the veteran receiver market unfolds as the Patriots evaluate roster depth ahead of the Nov. 10 trade deadline.

What to watch: The league's trade deadline passes on Nov. 10, setting the window for contending teams to adjust their receiving corps.