It appears that the New England Patriots have made a decisive choice regarding their plans for the No. 3 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
According to Jeff Howe of The Athletic, the Patriots are eagerly eyeing a quarterback as their primary target with their initial selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. Sources indicate unanimity among New England’s front office and coaching staff, affirming that drafting a top-tier quarterback prospect is deemed the most effective strategy to kickstart their rebuilding phase post-Bill Belichick.
While ample time remains for player evaluations and meetings, the Patriots are reportedly enamored with the top three quarterback prospects in this year’s draft class. While Caleb Williams is expected to be chosen first overall, New England is poised to select either Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels with the third pick.
RELATED: Patriots Executive Takes a Hard Shot at Bill Belichick With Comment About Team’s New Culture
Executives outside the Patriots organization have suggested that all three quarterbacks possess the coveted attributes sought by director of player personnel Eliot Wolf.
Despite the pressing need for a wide receiver, the Patriots could alternatively consider selecting Marvin Harrison Jr. at No. 3 and addressing the quarterback position later. However, there’s a prevailing belief within the NFL that the subsequent tier of quarterback prospects—JJ McCarthy, Bo Nix, and Michael Penix Jr.—may be off the board by the time New England selects again at No. 34.
Although Mac Jones remains under his rookie contract, the former Alabama standout has shown regression in performance over the past seasons. While Jones’ relationship with Belichick contributed to this decline, it appears that some within the Patriots organization would not favor his return as the starting quarterback in 2024.
Exploring the option of signing a veteran like Baker Mayfield in free agency is on the table, albeit costly. Given the Patriots’ multiple needs, they may opt to allocate their resources elsewhere, further bolstering their inclination towards drafting a quarterback early in the upcoming draft.
