3 Prospects the Patriots Should Trade Up for in NFL Draft
By Cem Yolbulan
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The New England Patriots are headed to the 2024 NFL Draft with the third overall pick, as well as a pick in every other round. We still don't know exactly what the Patriots are going to do with their No. 3 pick but in all likelihood, they will be drafting their next franchise quarterback.
Whether that is Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels, or JJ McCarthy remains to be seen. There is a chance New England might choose to trade down from their spot and acquire more assets in the meantime.
They are certainly not trading up, however. Neither the Commanders nor the Bears have shown any interest in making a trade from their respective spots.
But with their picks at 34, 68, and 103, the Patriots could certainly package a few of these selections to move up and draft a prospect they have targeted. Here are three candidates for whom it would be worth trading up.
Brian Thomas Jr., WR
Outside of quarterback, wide receiver is probably the position of the most desperate need for the Patriots. As of now, the starting receiver rotation is Kendrick Bourne, DeMario Douglas, and JuJu Smith-Schuster. That is less than ideal, to say the least.
The Patriots surprised everyone and disappointed their fans by not targeting a WR in free agency. Especially considering the fact that a rookie quarterback will be at the helm, giving him as many high-level pass-catchers as possible should have been the priority. Therefore, one would think that drafting a receiver with their second selection makes some sense for New England.
LSU standout Brian Thomas Jr. is currently projected to be a late first-rounder. But the Patriots could easily trade up a few spots for him if he was still available when it's closer to their turn. Only 21 years old, Thomas has plenty of upside with an impressive 6'3 frame, long arms, and athleticism. He exploded in his final collegiate season with 68 catches, 1,177 yards, and 17 touchdowns. He averaged a whopping 17.3 yards per catch, highlighting his ability to make big plays and be a deep threat.