The New England Patriots have been diligently working to build a well-rounded team around the potential future of the franchise, Drake Maye. The first step in stabilizing the situation was installing Mike Vrabel as head coach. But their efforts have also been focused on enhancing the roster.
Strengthening the defense was crucial to supporting Vrabel, while the front office has also prioritized providing Maye with offensive weapons. Yet, one analyst believes that one of the most significant additions of the offseason could come through the 2025 NFL Draft.
Patriots Predicted To Add Major Piece to Their Offensive Puzzle
Last year, the Patriots finished 26th on PFSN’s Offense+ metric. Some of that was due to starting a rookie quarterback, but Maye’s weapons were far from ideal. As a result, the Patriots were hard at work finding quality wide receivers to support him.
Adding Mack Hollins and Stefon Diggs gives them two legitimate options on that front. But the latest mock draft from PFSN has another game-changer in mind for them.
“In true Patriots fashion, general manager Eliot Wolf and new head coach Mike Vrabel used free agency to shore up the roster’s biggest holes, setting themselves up to take the best player available in the draft.”
With the fourth pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, Reese Decker has New England selecting the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, Travis Hunter. According to his recent three-round mock draft, his two-way versatility, even if not used to the extent it was at Colorado, is a no-brainer addition.
“The 2024 Heisman Trophy winner was a dynamic presence on both the offensive and defensive sides of the ball and could continue his two-way dominance in the NFL.” Making the case on both ends of the floor, Decker expanded.
Offensively, “As a receiver, Hunter has an exceptional feel for space, separation speed, smooth and efficient change of direction, elite body control, strong and natural hands, and always finds a way to come down with the football. He is a dynamic playmaker who always rises to the occasion.”
But, the position most analysts, including Decker, consider him a potential All-Pro in Year one for is at cornerback.
“On the defensive side, Hunter is equally impressive. A physical and willing tackler, he showcases elite ball skills, sharp instincts, and quick, decisive breakability. Hunter has a knack for making plays regardless of his position. He plays to win.”
However, on a New England team sorely lacking excitement and playmaking ability on offense, his most impactful role would likely be as a wideout.
“With Carlton Davis and Christian Gonzalez already on the roster at corner, I would expect Hunter to arrive in Foxboro as the Patriots’ top receiving option.” And it isn’t like he isn’t suitable for the job.
In his Heisman Trophy-winning season at Colorado, where he lined up for 84% of the team’s total snaps, Hunter recorded 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns on the year.
If there were any doubts about his versatility, he even netted a rushing touchdown in one of two carry attempts throughout the year.
His ceiling, both offensively and defensively, is elite for any team to consider. While Decker has him exclusively playing wide receiver, the Patriots could mix and match in selective sets to make the most of his elite athleticism and instincts as a corner.