The New England Patriots face a significant need at left tackle, potentially as significant as their need for a quarterback. This issue could be addressed by selecting Amarius Mims, dubbed “the next Trent Williams,” after executing a five-pick trade with the Minnesota Vikings during the 2024 NFL draft.
Ian Valentino of The 33rd Team proposed this scenario, suggesting a trade involving the Patriots’ third-overall pick and a third-round selection in 2025 in exchange for the Vikings’ 11th and 23rd picks in the current year, as well as a first-round pick in the following year.
Valentino envisions the Patriots utilizing the acquired picks to draft Mims from Georgia, highlighting him as the top talent among offensive linemen in the draft despite his limited experience, with just 802 career snaps. Valentino believes that if Mims remains healthy, he has the potential to emulate the success of Trent Williams.
Valentino suggests that the Patriots exercise patience and strategic planning in selecting a quarterback, advising them to carefully assess the draft board.
He proposes that with this approach, they could secure Texas wide receiver Adonai Mitchell, known for his exceptional route running skills, with the 23rd pick.
However, to acquire their desired QB1, the Patriots would need to engage in another trade. This would involve sending picks 34 and 137 to the Super Bowl Champion Kansas City Chiefs in exchange for the 32nd selection. With this pick, they would then select Washington signal-caller Michael Penix Jr.
Draft day would conclude with a productive and fruitful outcome, beginning with the strategic addition of a foundational player aimed at strengthening a questionable offensive line.
Drawing parallels to the esteemed Trent Williams should instill excitement within the Patriots organization ahead of the draft. Securing a player of Williams’ caliber for the crucial position along the offensive line could be transformative for the team. While the focus of the Patriots’ post-Bill Belichick rebuild has primarily been on the quarterback position, it’s essential to recognize that any revival project hinges on bolstering talent in the trenches.
A skilled lineman can wield a similar level of influence on a team’s success as a proficient quarterback. Williams’ illustrious career serves as a testament to this fact. Since joining the San Francisco 49ers in 2020, Williams has been instrumental in the team’s dominance in the NFC. His contributions have propelled the 49ers to three NFC Championship Games and last season’s Super Bowl appearance.
Williams’ impact extends beyond traditional blocking duties; he has also played a pivotal role in enabling Christian McCaffrey’s success on the ground. Frequently seen pulling into open space to pave the way for the All-Pro running back, Williams’ versatility and effectiveness in both phases of blocking have been key to the team’s achievements.
