As the NFL Draft draws near, the New England Patriots’ intentions with the No. 3 overall pick remain shrouded in uncertainty. While trading back is a possibility, a recent poll of NFL insiders points towards a potential consensus. Dane Brugler of The Athletic surveyed five “league guys,” and four of them predict that the Patriots will retain the pick and select North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye.
Maye’s potential has sparked varying assessments within the scouting community, as is often the case with quarterback prospects. However, following two standout seasons as the Tar Heels’ starting quarterback, he has emerged as the third-ranked quarterback in this year’s class, trailing only LSU’s Jayden Daniels and likely No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams of USC.
Despite his accolades, Maye has not escaped criticism. An anonymous former NFL general manager labeled Maye the “most overvalued prospect” due to his unremarkable traits beyond his impressive 6-foot-5 frame. Several NFL coaches and scouts have also expressed concerns regarding Maye’s readiness.
Despite these reservations, teams lower down the draft order have reportedly attempted to trade up with the Patriots to acquire the No. 3 pick, presumably with the intention of drafting Maye. According to reports, two NFC teams, the New York Giants and Minnesota Vikings, have expressed interest in the North Carolina product and explored the possibility of moving up.
However, the Patriots have reportedly rebuffed all inquiries, deeming the offers they have received as “laughable.” A team source indicated that the Patriots would even reject a proposal from the Vikings involving three first-round picks.
While there remains a slight chance that the Patriots could trade down or opt for a different quarterback prospect, such as J.J. McCarthy of Michigan, the growing consensus suggests that Maye is the most likely selection. As the draft approaches, it appears increasingly likely that the former Tar Heel will soon call Foxborough home.
