The New England Patriots won’t trade the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Just ask Jerod Mayo.
The first-year head coach ended speculation about a trade involving the No. 3 pick while speaking to fans during a pre-draft party at Gillette Stadium on Thursday. However, Mayo teased a possible deal later in the first round.
Patriots Apparently Won’t Trade No. 3 Pick in NFL Draft
The Patriots have generated more buzz than any team ahead of the draft. New England needs a new franchise quarterback, but you could argue the rebuilding Patriots have a greater need for additional draft assets.
Consequently, they’ve been at the center of many pre-draft trade rumors.
The Minnesota Vikings reportedly have called about a deal for the No. 3 pick. So, too, have the New York Giants. All along, de facto general manager Eliot Wolf has said the Patriots are “open” to moving the pick but would need to be blown away by an offer.
As the draft drew closer, multiple reports indicated the Patriots would hold onto the pick. And Mayo seemingly confirmed those rumors while delivering a brief statement.
“Look, we’re gonna get a good player at 3,” Mayo said. “And, look, it’s gonna be early, but we always can get back into the first round, too. So, stick around.”
Patriots owner Robert Kraft introduces HC Jerod Mayo to New England’s draft party 1 hour before the Draft.
Mayo’s message to the crowd: “We’re going to get a good player at 3. And look, it’s going to be early but we can always get back into the first round too. So stick around.” pic.twitter.com/3xatSsHbGF
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) April 25, 2024
New England also owns pick Nos. 34 and 68. On Thursday, ESPN’s Mike Reiss reported the Patriots were looking to package the pick in a trade that would move them back into the first round.
Will they pull it off? We’ll just have to wait and see.
Who Will Patriots Draft With No. 3 Pick?
All signs point toward New England using the No. 3 pick to draft a quarterback. And UNC’s Drake Maye appears to be the leader in the clubhouse.
“After weeks of listening to offers for the No. 3 overall pick, all signs now point to the Patriots standing pat and picking,” NFL Media’s Tom Pelissero reported roughly two hours before the start of the draft. “The belief within the league is that pick will most likely be North Carolina QB Drake Maye.”
And then there’s this from Tom E. Curran, one of the most well-connected reporters covering the Patriots:
“Expect the Patriots to take Drake Maye at number three tonight unless someone — Vikings or Giants — makes them an offer they just can’t refuse.”
KEEP READING: Full List of New England Patriots 2024 Draft Picks
Numerous reports suggest the Chicago Bears will select Caleb Williams with the first pick, and the Washington Commanders will use the second pick on Jayden Daniels. Maye likely will be available at No. 3, when he reportedly will get a call from the Patriots.
Looking for everything you need surrounding the 2024 NFL Draft? Make sure to check out the latest draft results, overall team grades, and updated best remaining players available at every position!
