Patriots May Already Know the First Pick of Second Round

The New England Patriots are officially undergoing a rebuild in 2024. Bill Belichick is out. Jerod Mayo and Eliot Wolf are in. Just like all other teams in the league, the Pats are focused on the 2024 NFL Draft that starts on April 25 at 8 p.m. ET.

The Patriots head into this draft with major long-term questions at both quarterback and wide receiver.

They have been rumored to take a QB at No. 3 but there is a lot of depth at the wide receiver position. As we get closer to Thursday, more info continues to emerge. The latest draft nugget that has dropped is about South Carolina's Xavier Legette.

Patriots Rumors: Xavier Legette Doesn't Expect to Stay on the Board Long During Day 2

Legette expects to hear his name early on Day 2 if he's still on the board. In an interview with John Crumpler, Legette said, "I’ve met with the Panthers 4 or 5 times. The relationship just keeps continuing to grow. They are really hoping I can make it to that second round. They keep telling me that if I’m sitting at [pick] 33 they’re going to take me.”

If the Pats have him high on their draft board, they are better off trading up into the first round to get him. Carolina has the 33rd overall selection and New England is right behind them at 34.

Legette is one of the most athletic and physically imposing playmakers in this year's class. The South Carolina native picks up his speed as he accelerates downfield. He owns strong hands and can climb the ladder to bring down those contested catches.

Last season, Legette put up career highs in receptions (71), receiving yards (1,255) and touchdowns (7).

Just like Carolina, New England needs help at WR. One thing that sounds clear, if they want Legette, they would be wise to jump ahead of the Panthers.

More Patriots news and rumors: