The New England Patriots may have found their new franchise quarterback.
Now, the next step is to keep him out of harm’s way.
With that in mind, most analysts believe they will go with an offensive tackle with the No. 4 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
When asked about that, new head coach Mike Vrabel admitted that there were several players who could come in and start right out of the gate.
“I think there’s some starting tackles that certainly will come in and start in the NFL. I think that’s really what you start to look for, right? It’s impact players when you start picking that high,” he said.
#Patriots HC Mike Vrabel when asked if there are OTs worth taking at No. 4:
“I think there’s some starting tackles that certainly will come in and start in the NFL. I think that’s really what you start to look for, right? It’s impact players when you start picking that high.” pic.twitter.com/99zIH1yfdy
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) April 15, 2025
The Patriots have been tied to the likes of Will Campbell and Amand Membou, two starting-caliber offensive tackles who could make an immediate impact in Foxboro.
Perhaps none of them is as highly-touted as Mason Graham, the No. 1 defensive tackle prospect entering this class.
Then again, they have a bigger need at offensive tackle.
Of course, everything can change depending on the first three selections.
For now, Cam Ward is firmly expected to be the first player off the board, with Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter right after him.
Nevertheless, if either Hunter or Carter is available by the time the Patriots are on the clock, it’s hard to imagine them passing on either of them.
If that’s not the case, then finding someone to keep Drake Maye safe and sound perhaps makes the most sense.
The Patriots know they have something special with Maye, and they want to put him in a position to succeed.
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