Thursday marks NFL Draft Day in New England, and speculation swirls around the Patriots’ intentions at the No. 3 pick. Will they stay put and select North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye, or will they trade back and pursue other options, possibly Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy?
Just 24 hours before the draft, both possibilities remain on the table. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah initially suggested the Patriots were unlikely to trade the pick but later mentioned a glimmer of hope, indicating that an exceptional offer could sway their decision. Minnesota, in particular, is reportedly eager to move up for Maye.
Maye, one of the 13 prospects invited to attend the draft, expressed contentment with his potential destination, stating that he is ready to compete wherever he lands. However, his responses to questions about the Patriots and Giants, who hold the No. 6 pick, were noticeably different.
Maye praised his visit with the Giants and spoke enthusiastically about the prospect of being coached by Brian Daboll, who has played a key role in Josh Allen’s development. In contrast, his comments about the Patriots were more reserved, indicating that he might prefer to join the Giants or Vikings.
This could suggest that Maye believes the Patriots are not genuinely interested in drafting him at No. 3. However, his responses were also vague, leaving room for speculation that the Patriots may be coaching him to maintain secrecy.
If the Patriots do trade the pick, they will need to be confident in their ability to secure a quarterback later in the draft. J.J. McCarthy, Michael Penix, and Bo Nix are among the prospects who could be available.
Jeremiah emphasized that the Patriots cannot leave the draft without a quarterback. Trading away the pick carries the risk of missing out on a viable quarterback, which would be considered a failure.
With just hours to go before the draft, the Patriots’ intentions remain a mystery. The possibility of a trade or the selection of Maye remains open, leaving the NFL world eagerly awaiting the revelation of their decision.
