After the worst-case scenario happened in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, with CB/WR Travis Hunter being taken at No. 2 and pass rusher Abdul Carter going to the Giants at No. 3, the Patriots made the expected selection of LSU left tackle Will Campbell. It was a safe pick and will immediately improve their offensive production this upcoming season, making it an even better decision for Mike Vrabel and Co.
That seemingly concluded the Patriots' night for the start of the draft, as they are not on the clock again until pick No. 38 in Round 2. Many fans expressed their desire to see a trade-up situation occur since several desirable players are left on the board, and fortunately, that possibility remains open.
Mike Vrabel hinted at the Patriots considering a move to trade back into the first round after discussing their decision to select Campbell, emphasizing that it would need to be for the right player and not just trading up for the sake of it.
Mike Vrabel doesn't rule out trading back up into the end of the first round, but says it would have to be for the right player they have graded accordingly and they won't move up just to move up.
— Alex Barth (@RealAlexBarth) April 25, 2025
The Patriots could have a chance to trade back into the first, as new reports suggest several are trying to trade down, which could work in New England's favor.
The Patriots might choose to trade back into the first round for another game-altering player
Because there are still several needs to be addressed on the Patriots roster, it isn't surprising that Vrabel is leaving the door open to trade up from the second round to snag one of the best remaining players who will fit what they need.
The most likely scenario would be for a wide receiver, as the class is not exactly extraordinary, or a pass rusher since they already missed out on Carter. If one of the top players at either position falls further than anticipated, the Patriots could decide to move up to grab him before it's too late.
The problem is that who that player might be is an absolute mystery at this point. There hasn't been much about who they liked that could be available later in the first round, so guessing who they would deem worthy of trading up is unclear. What positions they will likely prioritize is an easier guess, which is why EDGE and wide receiver are the likeliest of all.
With some of the more intriguing options starting to come off the board, like WR Emeka Egbuka to the Bucs at No. 19, the Patriots might be more motivated to get a deal done sooner rather than later. But for now, we'll have to wait and see.