The 2025 NFL Draft is just around the corner and who the Patriots will inevitably take with their first round pick is becoming more of a heated debate. Because they didn't hit on a few positions during the hottest part of free agency, including left tackle and wide receiver, there is an increasing belief that will target them early in the draft.
That has put Colorado CB/WR Travis Hunter and LSU left tackle Will Campbell front and center, both of whom would be solid additions to the Patriots offense.
They have long been connected to New England since it became official that they would hold a top-5 pick. Hunter and Campbell are highly regarded in their positions, and the offense is in dire need of help at both.
But there might be a sneaky good prospect that is getting overlooked and shouldn't be, especially considering how good he could be for Drake Maye in 2025 and beyond.
The Patriots might want to look at another wide receiver to take at No. 4 in the draft
Although Hunter is widely considered the best wide receiver prospect in the upcoming draft, the Patriots might not have the chance to select him by the time they're on the clock in the first round. Because of that, they'll have to shift their focus to another player, who some believe should be a left tackle.
But if it's not, and they're still set on taking a receiver, there's no reason not to consider Arizona's Tetairoa McMillan seriously. He impressed at his Pro Day on Monday with a solid performance, immediately rising in the ranks of the Patriots options.
Arizona WR and projected top pick Tetairoa McMillan had his Pro Day today, where scouts in attendance clocked him at a 4.48 40-yard dash.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 17, 2025
The 6’4”, 219-pound First-Team All-American had 24 NFL teams in attendance to watch him, per source. pic.twitter.com/UJwcJXkwwK
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McMillan would address much of what the Patriots' receiving corps lacks, whether it be size, speed, or elusiveness, which makes him even more attractive to take in the first round. It might be a bit higher than they'd like to, so there is a chance a trade-down scenario could work.
But it's also risky, considering this year's draft class isn't full of prominent talent at the receiver position.
No matter what, McMillan needs to be in the conversation for the Patriots at receiver, especially after striking out in free agency. If there is no plan to pull off a blockbuster trade, the draft is their last solution to help Maye for the 2025 season, and McMillan could be the perfect guy for the job.