Since it became clear the Patriots would have a top-5 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, they have been favored for a number of top of the class rookies who would dramatically improve their team in one way or another.
They have mostly remained offensive players, either wide receivers or left tackles, both of which are very needed for the 2025 season. However, in recent weeks, with the addition of Mike Vrabel as the new head coach, the focus has shifted to stud pass rusher Abdul Carter, as he appears to fit the prototype of what the former linebacker looks for in a defensive lineman.
The uncertainty of who they will ultimately select with the fourth overall pick continues to be reflected in the latest mock drafts, but a shift is noticed in those that have been released this week. After holding steady as the favorite for Travis Hunter or Carter, the new name to watch for is LSU tackle Will Campbell.
He is the current frontrunner for the Patriots to draft, and he would be an excellent addition to the offensive line to protect Drake Maye for the foreseeable future.
New England Patriots 2025 NFL Draft: Mock Draft Roundup
Yahoo Sports: Will Campbell, T, LSU
"New England seemingly found its quarterback in Drake Maye, who was stellar as a rookie last season. Now, the Patriots need to find serious help on the offensive line in order to make sure he has the most help possible to see his career through. Campbell is a Day 1 starter at left tackle who will be a nice building block on New England's mission to improve the offensive line."
CBS Sports: Will Campbell, T, LSU
"Will Campbell is the prudent selection here for the Patriots who must protect Drake Maye significantly better than they did during his rookie season."
NFL.com: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
"New head coach Mike Vrabel's personal experience as a two-way player could help the Patriots maximize this Heisman Trophy winner's potential as a combo playmaker in the NFL."
Pro Football Network: Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado
"So, so many problems to fix in New England. With a significant amount of roster holes, why not select a player that can fill two? Hunter likely best projects as an outside corner who contributes occasionally on offense. His high-level impact and star power will be a massive boost for the Patriots."
The Athletic: Tetairoa McMillan, WR, University of Arizona
"I’d like to write “Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State” here but, incredibly, we’re still two years away from Smith hearing his name called. So, the choice for New England comes down to a playmaker for Drake Maye or a defender. There’s no real wrong answer — but if you have a young quarterback, it’s best to provide him a receiver with whom he can grow.
No Patriots receiver caught more than three touchdown passes last season and only one averaged more than 11 yards per catch. McMillan has Mike Evans-like skills, which would be helpful for Josh McDaniels’ remodeled offense under new coach Mike Vrabel."
PFF: Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State
"While New England’s top priority this offseason should be to surround quarterback Drake Maye with as much talent as possible, it’s hard to pass on Carter here. In his first year playing on the ball, the junior finished as easily the most valuable edge defender in college football, according to PFF’s wins above average metric. He’s a freak athlete whom many consider the best player in the draft, regardless of position. Carter would form an enticing edge pairing with Keion White."
The Draft Network: Will Campbell, T, LSU
"This pairing is straightforward: Will Campbell is a Mike Vrabel type of football player. With Vrabel now leading the charge in New England, you have to believe there will be a renewed emphasis on running the football and maintaining balance to help develop young quarterback Drake Maye. After all, Vrabel was in New England during the early days of Tom Brady, when that exact recipe for success was used.
The Patriots need a tackle, and this pick addresses a primary position of need. Campbell is a tough, road-grading offensive tackle who can help establish the physical identity Vrabel will want to instill. His presence should immediately contribute to changing the culture in New England."