Marvin Harrison Jr. update may be bad news for the Patriots draft aspirations

Because the Patriots are one of the worst teams in the entire NFL this season, most fans are already looking ahead to the 2024 draft. Although it doesn't begin until April 25, 2024, there is plenty of excitement for who the team could draft with their projected top-5 pick in the first round.

To make matters more interesting, there is an intense debate about what position should be prioritized with such a high pick: offensive lineman, quarterback, or wide receiver. Because all three are said to have a deep class this year, the Patriots should have plenty of options when it's time to make their selection.

The favorite candidates for fans have been focused on quarterbacks Drake Maye and Caleb Williams and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr.

Other than the apparent issues happening this season with Mac Jones and the assumption that his time as the New England starting quarterback is numbered, finally getting a game-changing receiver is making the idea of taking Harrison Jr. hard to pass up, regardless of whatever the situation may be at quarterback.

But that plan just had a wrench thrown into it, as Harrison Jr. revealed in his post-game press conference on Saturday that he is still uncertain what his future holds and whether or not he will declare for the 2024 NFL draft.

"I don’t know. I don’t have an answer for you just yet. Not a conversation to be had. It’s just family. The coaches, teammates. I don’t have an answer for you yet."

Given that he just finished his final college game with Ohio State, it's unsurprising that he wouldn't know what he wants to do just yet nor wish to reveal that information even if he did have an answer. But it is interesting to hear a favorite to go in the top 3 of the draft, with some even projecting he could go first overall, claim he hasn't thought about declaring before this moment.

There's plenty of time for that decision to be made, of course, which is good news for the Patriots. But at the same time, it may be a sign of the future if Harrison Jr. ultimately decides to wait out another season.

It would be unfortunate for a team that is very much in need of a receiver of his caliber, especially since the wide receivers set to hit free agency are either not that exciting or will demand a hefty contract. However, this could be the sign the Patriots need to focus strictly on getting their next franchise quarterback if Harrison Jr. is not an option, something many fans would be happy to see.

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