3 receivers Patriots must target on Day 2 of the NFL Draft

Dreams came true on the first night of the 2024 NFL Draft, especially for Patriots fans hoping to see a quarterback taken with the No. 3 pick. Drake Maye is on his way to Foxboro and now it's time for the new regime to bulk up the offense to make the rookie's job easier this fall and in the future.

New England holds the second pick of the second round to kick off Friday's continuation of the draft, and there are some top-quality receivers left on the board for them to choose from.

The Bills do pick ahead of them now, though, after a few trade backs, and they're likely to take a receiver after shipping Stefon Diggs to the Texans. But there are at least three that the Patriots should have their eyes on who would be good fits for their developing offense.

3 receivers Patriots must target on Day 2 of the NFL Draft

Adonai Mitchell - Texas

One of the more shocking players not picked in Round 1 is Texas' Adonai Mitchell, the receiver who made headlines earlier this year for his performance during the 2024 Combine.

He clocked the third fastest time for the 40-yard-dash (4.34 seconds) and tied with seven players in fourth for the fastest 10-yard-split (1.52 seconds). So, if the Patriots are really prioritizing speed in their efforts to build a better offense, Mitchell would be a great guy to pick.

He's 6'4" and known for being very fluid for his size. Mitchell would be an excellent asset for rookie Drake Maye or even Jacoby Brissett as a red zone target, as he scored 18 touchdowns over the last three seasons.

Ladd McConkey - Georgia

Fitting the mold of a player the Patriots have historically liked due to his background as a defensive back, punter, quarterback, return specialist, and running back, Ladd McConkey brings the type of football IQ coaches could only dream of.

On top of his impressive versatility, the Georgia alum is also quick on his feet and uses his physicality to make a catch.

His unique positional experience allows him to line up all over the offense, which would be beneficial for the Patriots as they hope to make a standout offense again, and McConkey has all the makings of a player just waiting to be unleashed to show what he really can do on game day.

Devontez Walker - UNC

Would it be a dream scenario to reunite a college quarterback and wide receiver back together in the NFL? The Patriots can do that if they draft Devontez Walker, who put together a couple of great seasons working with Drake Maye at North Carolina.

Walker has been labeled an explosive offensive weapon, particularly during his time at Kent State and playing against stiffer competition. He shined during that 2022 season, the best of his college career, and he could thrive even more with the Patriots if he continues to work with his former quarterback.

The 6'2" receiver is excellent at making deep catches, which the Patriots hope to involve more of in the season ahead, allowing quarterbacks to stretch the field and make bigger plays.

Walker might not be the most "polished" receiver available on Day 2, but the chemistry between him and Maye can't be replicated, which might make passing on him a bit more difficult for Mayo and Wolf.

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