Latest 7-Round Mock Draft lays foundation for Patriots' future

Patriots reset their offense with new franchise quarterback

Rd. 1, Pick No. 3: QB Drake Maye, North Carolina

When you have to restart your franchise, it begins with a new leader under center. This selection could go one of two ways if the Washington Commanders stay at second overall and select a QB. The hope is that Washington will pass on North Carolina’s Drake Maye, leaving him to be chosen by the New England Patriots.

In all honesty, if the Commanders select Maye instead, LSU’s Jayden Daniels would be a great consolation prize. However, if Maye and Daniels were equal physically, Maye would be the preferred choice. Why? If the play breaks down, Maye keeps his eyes down the field, looking to make a play. Daniels usually makes a break for it and runs.

While Daniels can make an explosive play with his legs, a quarterback who throws after the play breaks down can create more explosive plays through the air. And there’s also less risk of injury. We’ve seen Daniels take some big hits while at LSU. In the NFL, he won’t get up from all of them. Just ask Indianapolis’ Anthony Richardson.

Maye is a pocket passer who’s also a great athlete. He embodies classic size, a strong arm, with a modern ability to create when the play breaks down. Like many young passers, he’s not a finished product. He will need time to develop. That’s why the Patriots brought back Jacoby Brissett. He’s an ideal veteran from which Maye can learn.

There are those that believe the Patriots should select the best player available, which would be Marvin Harrison Jr. But what good is an elite receiver without a good quarterback to get him the ball?