With the 2024 NFL Draft just days away, the New England Patriots are facing a pivotal decision with their No. 3 overall pick. The team has numerous needs, but experts agree that addressing the quarterback position is their top priority.
The choice will largely depend on the selections made by the Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders, who hold the No. 1 and No. 2 picks, respectively. Chicago is expected to choose USC quarterback Caleb Williams, while Washington is likely to follow suit with another signal-caller.
According to Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer, the Patriots are poised to select quarterback Jayden Daniels if he is still available. Most reports have Daniels projected to the Commanders, leaving Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy and North Carolina’s Drake Maye as viable options for New England.
Breer notes that the Patriots have a large scouting crew dedicated to the No. 3 pick, including de facto GM Eliot Wolf, head coach Jerod Mayo, and several other key staff members. They have all been involved in evaluating Daniels, Maye, McCarthy, and Michael Penix.
While a trade down is still possible, the Patriots are highly likely to address their quarterback need at No. 3. All of the aforementioned quarterbacks have visited Gillette Stadium on official 30 visits, with Penix being a late addition in case New England decides to trade down.
