James White is used to delivering big moments for the New England Patriots—and he’ll be back on the clock next week.
The three-time Super Bowl champion and franchise legend will announce New England’s picks on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft, per Ari Meirov. White will represent the team in Green Bay during Rounds 2 and 3, which will take place on Friday, April 25. It’s a fitting honor for one of the most dependable and beloved Patriots of the dynasty era.
The NFL has announced the former and active players who will announce picks in Rounds 2 and 3 of next week’s NFL Draft.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 17, 2025
Furthermore, Jordy Nelson, Clay Matthews, Mason Crosby, Ahman Green & James Jones will be on-site to help Commissioner Roger Goodell officially kick off the… pic.twitter.com/tZXtubpj4a
White, who was drafted in the fourth round in 2014, now returns to the stage to call out future Patriots hopefuls. For fans who remember the game-winning touchdown in Super Bowl LI—or any of his 44 career touchdowns (playoffs and regular season)—it’s a reminder of just how much he meant to the franchise.
James White set to announce Patriots' Day 2 draft picks
White played eight seasons in New England after being selected in the fourth round of the 2014 draft, racking up 3,278 receiving yards, 1,278 rushing yards, and 36 total touchdowns.
His signature moment came in Super Bowl LI when he scored the first and only overtime touchdown in Super Bowl history to cap off the 28-3 comeback against the Atlanta Falcons. He remains one of the most prolific pass-catching backs in league history, leading all running backs in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns over a six-year stretch.
Now 33, White retired in 2022 after a hip injury and recently joined the coaching staff at the University of Illinois. He’ll return to Wisconsin—his college roots—for this year’s draft alongside several other Badger alums. But it’s his role with the Patriots that will take center stage Friday night.
New England will hear quite a bit from White, as the team currently holds three Day 2 picks: Nos. 38, 69, and 77 overall. With several holes still to fill, including at receiver, edge rusher, and offensive line, this stretch could be critical for reshaping the roster around Drake Maye.
Whether it’s an offensive lineman like Tyler Booker (Alabama), a wideout like Jayden Higgins (Iowa State), or a pass rusher like JT Tuimoloau (Ohio State), the Patriots need contributors. And James White—a fourth-round pick who became a core part of multiple Super Bowl runs—is the perfect guy to welcome the next wave.
It’s a fun full-circle moment for a player who defined consistency and composure. And if any current draft hopefuls need inspiration, just remember: James White once heard his name called on Day 3… and went on to become one of the most clutch players in franchise history. Who knows? Maybe White must just call the next Patriots great.