With the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have a significant opportunity to address their most pressing roster need, presumably by selecting one of the top quarterback prospects available. However, head coach Jerod Mayo has indicated that this choice is not set in stone. Despite the team’s glaring need at the quarterback position, they are exploring all possibilities.
Mayo stated, “It’s the priority right now. But with that being said, you have to really be in love with the guy to take him at No. 3,” during an interview with NFL Network’s Steve Wyche at the NFL annual meeting in Orlando, FL. He emphasized that all options are still open for the Patriots, including listening to trade offers.
“We’re still open to any type of deals that come our way,” Mayo said, as transcribed by ESPN’s Mike Reiss. “We’re very far [into] the process, but we still have a long way to go. Definitely feel like we have time to really nail down our prospects in who we are going to go after.”
Mayo highlighted that scouting other positions besides quarterback is also part of their process. Despite the team’s flexibility, they appear likely to select a quarterback in the first round unless a trade alters their plans.
The Patriots currently face uncertainty at quarterback, having traded former starter Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The remaining quarterbacks on their roster are free agent pickup Jacoby Brissett, Bailey Zappe, and Nathan Rourke. Brissett, who signed a one-year, $8 million deal, is viewed as a potential bridge quarterback for the 2024 season.
Mayo expressed optimism about Brissett’s leadership and potential as a starter, stating, “A guy like Jacoby, he’s a great leader. Everyone loves him. To get him back in the building is definitely helpful for us. And honestly, look, he could absolutely be our starter this year. We’ll have to see.”
Brissett, a former third-round draft pick by the Patriots, returns to New England after stints with the Indianapolis Colts, Miami Dolphins, and Cleveland Browns. His familiarity with the Patriots’ system and coaching staff, particularly offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt, makes him a valuable asset.
The Patriots’ approach to the quarterback position remains fluid as they weigh their options leading up to the draft. Mayo’s comments suggest that while they are not committed to drafting a quarterback with the third overall pick, they are prepared to address the position in the draft or through other means.
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