Foxborough, Massachusetts – The New England Patriots are actively considering offers from teams interested in trading up to the third pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft, sources within the league have revealed. Eliot Wolf, the Patriots’ director of scouting, is leading the discussions, with heavy involvement from New England president Jonathan Kraft in the decision-making process.
Wolf recently stated that the team is open to trading back, indicating a willingness to entertain potential offers for the coveted pick. However, Robert Kraft, the team’s owner, has expressed a strong desire for the Patriots to secure a quarterback in this year’s draft, potentially complicating trade discussions.
While the Patriots could explore trading back up to select Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy, there is a sense of confidence within the team about their position at No. 3. Head coach Jerod Mayo has suggested that it would require a significant offer, referred to as “a bag,” to entice the Patriots to move down in the draft.
In a recent mock draft by The Athletic, the Patriots were projected to select North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye with the third overall pick. This comes as the team navigates its first draft without long-time head coach Bill Belichick, who departed after 24 seasons.
Following a challenging 4-13 season, the Patriots have identified quarterback as a top priority. The team previously traded former starter Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars and currently has Jacoby Brissett and Bailey Zappe as the top QBs on their depth chart.
As the draft approaches, all eyes are on the Patriots and their strategy to address their needs and build for the future. With the third pick in their possession, New England holds a valuable asset that could shape the trajectory of the franchise for years to come.