The New England Patriots have been linked in NFL rumors ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft to either taking a quarterback with the third overall pick or trading down with another team. As draft day nears closer, some around the league are keeping an eye on a specific scenario.
New England has received its fair share of criticism this offseason, mainly focused on offseason moves. The Patriots didn’t add a No. 1 receiver nor did they make real improvements to the offensive line. As a result, New England’s starting quarterback in 2024 would be operating in one of the worst situations in the NFL.
Related: New England Patriots mock draft 2024
In recent days, there has been more buzz connecting the Patriots to quarterback prospects Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels. There’s also been debate regarding whether or not New England needs to draft a quarterback with the third overall pick to make up for an uninspiring offseason, headlined by the addition of quarterback Jacoby Brissett.
Appearing on SportsCenter, ESPN NFL insider Jeremy Fowler reported that the Patriots are “comfortable with” Brissett as their starting quarterback in 2024 as a bridge-year quarterback. Furthermore, NFL executives don’t view it as a “slam dunk” that New England will take a quarterback with the third overall pick.
“I have talked to a few teams that are drafting in the top 10-12 that wonder if the quarterback they want isn’t there at No. 3 do they just take a Marvin Harrison Jr., stockpile some picks.”
ESPN NFL reporter Jeremy Fowler on the New England Patriots
Also Read: 2024 NFL Draft quarterback rankings
Who will the Patriots draft third overall?
While passing on a quarterback might not be the most popular decision, there is a rationale behind it. Drafting either Maye, Daniels or J.J. McCarthy would be throwing that rookie into a spot that isn’t tailored for immediate success.
Even if the first-year quarterback doesn’t start immediately, they would see the field in 2024 and the Patriots’ supporting cast is much worse than what teams like the Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings and Las Vegas Raiders have.
Also Read: 2024 NFL Draft prospect rankings
Brissett has proven over the last two seasons that he is a capable starter and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. is widely believed to be the caliber of player who can become a perennial All-Pro selection.
Drafting him would be the first step in creating a better infrastructure for the next young Patriots quarterback. Plus, New England could take Harrison Jr. second overall and then move up at the end of Round 1 to draft either Bo Nix or Michael Penix Jr.
Related: Best NFL players of all time