The New England Patriots shouldn’t overthink this, and Adam Caplan doesn’t think they will.
In his latest 2024 mock draft, Pro Football Network’s NFL Insider has the Patriots using the No. 3 pick to select their next franchise quarterback. There will be no trade down nor drafting of an elite wideout prospect. But which QB will New England take?
NFL Insider Adam Caplan Has Patriots Drafting QB Drake Maye
Some people believe the Patriots could take J.J. McCarthy with the No. 3 pick. Others believe Jayden Daniels will still be available. But McCarthy feels like a reach at this spot, and all signs point toward the Washington Commanders selecting Daniels with the No. 2 pick.
So, all eyes are on Drake Maye. Are the Patriots sold on the remarkably talented 21-year-old despite his disappointing final season at UNC? Or will they be scared off by all of Maye’s on-field red flags?
Caplan had the Patriots selecting Maye in two of his first three NFL mock drafts. And he’s sticking with Maye in his final mock ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft.
“Left tackle is still a big need for the New England Patriots, but the 2024 NFL Draft starts at quarterback for this football team, as they don’t have their future at the position sewn up by any means,” Caplan wrote.
“While Drake Maye still needs a lot of development, his talent is too hard to pass up here.”
Caplan’s analysis makes sense. The Patriots can’t afford not to take a quarterback with the No. 3 pick, and Maye likely will be the best available. It’s the most logical outcome.
However, don’t be surprised if New England throws a last-minute curveball.
The Patriots reportedly hosted Michael Penix Jr. this week for a 30 visit. It’s probably nothing more than due diligence, but no 30 visits should be overlooked.
Penix likely isn’t a candidate for a top-five selection, but the Patriots could select him later in the first round if they trade down. A trade with the Minnesota Vikings, who own pick Nos. 11 and 23, could open the door for Penix landing in New England. The Patriots also could select a receiver or tackle at No. 3, then draft Penix later in Round 1 or early in Round 2.
That’s all speculation, though.
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Ultimately, Caplan’s prediction feels like the most likely outcome. Maye has franchise QB talent, and the Patriots, who signed Jacoby Brissett in free agency, wouldn’t need to start him right away. New England could afford to play the long game with a player who one day could lead them back to NFL relevance.