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Here’s who Mel Kiper Jr. has the Patriots picking in latest 2024 NFL mock draft
"As I wrote in my Mock Draft 1.0, quarterback is the Patriots' biggest hole this offseason."
Another mock draft, another projected blue-chip quarterback landing in Foxborough in late April.
ESPN’s NFL draft expert Mel Kiper Jr. released his latest 2024 NFL mock draft on Wednesday, with Kiper not deviating all that much from his initial draft projections released last month.
Once again, Kiper tabbed the Patriots with selecting UNC quarterback Drake Maye with the No. 3 pick in the draft — with the poised Tar Heels signal-caller falling to New England after USC’s Caleb Williams (Bears) and LSU’s Jayden Daniels (Commanders) went No. 1 and No. 2 off the draft board, respectively.
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“As I wrote in my Mock Draft 1.0, quarterback is the Patriots’ biggest hole this offseason,” Kiper wrote in his analysis of New England’s first-round pick. “The organization can’t move forward and get back to competing for AFC East titles until it gets the position right. Mac Jones had a solid rookie season in 2021 but regressed badly the past two seasons; he could be traded or released over the next few months.
“So unless New England takes a surprise run at one of the veterans on the market — Kirk Cousins? Russell Wilson, who is likely to be released? — Maye makes too much sense. Sure, he’s the third passer off the board in this class, but he might be the No. 1 pick in many other drafts. He’s No. 5 on my Big Board, has special touch on downfield passes and can deliver every throw with precision.”
Maye, who is expected to meet with the Patriots during the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, is projected as a top-three lock in the 2024 NFL Draft — given both the QB woes plaguing the Bears, Commanders, and Patriots, along with Maye’s lofty potential in the NFL ranks.
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During his career with the Tar Heels, Maye threw for 8,018 yards, 63 touchdowns and 16 total interceptions while rushing for 1,209 yards and 16 scores. Even though he can scramble when needed, most scouts have honed in on Maye’s throwing strength and his pro-ready frame at 6-foot-4, 230 pounds.
Earlier this week, Maye was asked on “The Adam Schefter Podcast” about potentially playing for the Patriots in 2024 and beyond.
“New England, I mean, it’s hard not to talk about The Dynasty,” Maye said. “You know, you think of the GOAT. That’s what you think of when you think of New England you think of the GOAT, Tom Brady. So, just a place that’s had a lot of success and had some years lately that they haven’t been as successful and looking to get back on track and I know that’s, you know, right there near Boston.”
“Shoot, these are three great sports towns you’re talking about now,” he continued, looping New England in with Washington, D.C. and Chicago. “So, all great places to play and, you know, I think a great spot to be a franchise quarterback at and that’s what I’m working towards. Whoever decides to draft me, I’m ready and excited to get to work.”
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