The 2024 NFL Draft may still be just over a month away, but there’s already a consensus expecting Chicago and Washington to draft a quarterback at one and two. The New England Patriots on the other hand, are open for business at No. 3.
Of course, the Patriots could simply stay put, and take the next best quarterback available between whoever’s left among Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, or even J.J. McCarthy. Yet, what if the front office doesn’t have a high grade on the prospect who falls?
Even though finding their franchise quarterback is the priority, according to head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots are keeping their options open with the third pick.
“It’s the priority right now. But with that being said, you have to really be in love with the guy to take him at No. 3. So really all the options are still open for us.”
New England Patriots coach Jerod Mayo
Related: 2024 NFL mock draft: Broncos, Vikings get QBs, projecting J.J. McCarthy’s landing spot
So what would the Patriots do at quarterback if New England did entertain a godfather trade offer from a team eager to move up like the Vikings? Possibly even turn back to the recently signed Jacoby Brissett.
“A guy like Jacoby, he’s a great leader. Everyone loves him. To get him back in the building is definitely helpful for us,” Mayo said. “And honestly, look, he could absolutely be our starter this year. We’ll have to see. Like I said, we’re not dead set at taking a quarterback at No. 3, but we do feel good having a guy like Jacoby ready to go.”
Jerod Mayo, continued
It’s smokescreen season, so don’t expect the Patriots to blatantly announce their NFL Draft plans. For now, they’re saying all options are on the table, from trading the pick to taking a QB. Yet, Mayo’s comments about having to truly be sold on a prospect before taking him at No. 3 are fascinating at the very least. If their preferred player isn’t available, we just might see a trade on draft day.
