The 2024 NFL Draft is just about a month away, and teams are entering the final phase of evaluating potential rookies to add to their rosters for the upcoming season.
The New England Patriots are no exception. Despite making notable moves in free agency, the six-time Super Bowl champions still have the opportunity to bring in a game-changing player through the draft.
Holding the No. 4 overall pick, the Patriots are in a prime position to secure one of this year's top prospects.
New England has the opportunity to strengthen key areas, including wide receiver, the offensive line, and the defensive line.
The team can opt to go after Penn State's Abdul Carter, Colorado's Travis Hunter or Mizzou's Armand Membou to fill in its needy positions.
However, if all are taken before it's the Patriots turn on the clock, an NFL draft expert has an idea on who the team should go after.
Speaking on ESPN's "The Pat McAfee Show," NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah said he believes Mike Vrabel and company should go after the best player available instead of addressing other important areas.
"I would say if you don't get Abdul Carter or Travis Hunter, I would add a little line to the end of ‘best available,'" Jeremiah said. "I would say ‘best available player that can help your quarterback.' So I would be looking on the offensive side of the ball, and Ashton Jeanty - I have him as, I think, the No. 3 player in the draft."
Jeremiah added that Jeanty is a player who can instantly help Maye by taking some pressure off of his shoulders.
Jeanty, who played at Boise State, is not only likely to be taken in the first round but can also be a top-10 pick.
He logged 2,601 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns on 374 carries with the Broncos in 2024. He was 27 yards short of equaling Barry Sanders' college record for most rushing yards in a single season.
Related: Trade Pitch Has Patriots Landing AFC East Rival Star Receiver
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This story was originally published March 27, 2025 at 3:00 PM.