New England Sports Network host Travis Thomas has explained his belief that the New England Patriots must draft Colorado Buffaloes star dual-threat player Travis Hunter if he falls to them in next year’s draft. While discussing the 2025 NFL Draft on the Foxboro Rush show, the possibility of trading down or drafting an offensive lineman was floated around by the other co-hosts. In response, Thomas gave a bold statement on the matter.
What Did Travis Thomas Say About Travis Hunter?
The Patriots have shown improvement since rookie quarterback Drake Maye took over the offense. However, the once-dominant franchise still needs drastic development on both sides of the ball.
In the previously mentioned video released to X (formerly known as Twitter), Thomas explained how there was no way the Patriots should overlook Hunter should he fall to them in the draft.
“If they pick 3rd and Travis Hunter is on the board and they don’t take him, I’m blaming you,” he stated.
He also referenced how no other situation, whether that be trading down the order or drafting some other position, would be sufficient if Hunter is on the board and available.
“If they pick 3rd and Travis Hunter is on the board and they don’t take him, I’m blaming you!” @TravisThomasExp WILL NOT accept an Offensive Lineman if the Patriots have a top 3 draft pick.
— NESN (@NESN) December 9, 2024
Is Thomas’ Assessment of the Patriots’ Needs Correct?
Due to the Patriots’ current state, it appears that both sides of the debate have merit and are potential areas of needed improvement.
In many respects, New England drafting Hunter makes a lot of sense. The Patriots are currently without a true WR1 and have a young offensive group in which Hunter, Maye, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson could grow and develop together.
On the defensive side of the ball, Hunter could partner with Christian Gonzalez and form one of the most dynamic and shutdown defensive units in the NFL.
However, drafting an offensive lineman also makes sense for the Pats and the longevity of Maye’s future at quarterback.
According to Pro Football Focus, the Patriots currently have the worst offensive line unit in the NFL. This has led to numerous instances of Maye taking hard hits and needing to release the ball before the play downfield has developed. Adding an elite lineman could help New England and its young QB.
While it remains to be seen which direction the Pats take in next year’s draft, it is evident that Thomas believes the correct path forward is drafting the Buffaloes’ star.