Patriots: Way too early look at quarterback prospects in 2024

The New England Patriots could be looking for a new quarterback come next offseason if Mac Jones does not show improvement in year three. Let's dive into some of these prospects.

I keep trying to tell people that Mac Jones isn't a long-term answer, and I think he'll unfortunately prove that next year. Bill O'Brien is a solid offensive mind and should have plenty in his brain to turn this offense into something competent, but I don't think Mac Jones is going to improve enough to close the door on the QB issue.

The Patriots might benefit from taking a look at the 2024 class. I do think that the team would consider drafting a QB even if Jones improved. He could marginally improve and still clearly not have that extra gear to be a legitimate starter in the NFL.

Let's dive into some 2024 QB prospects.

Patriots: 2024 quarterback prospects to consider

Caleb Williams
The likely future #1 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft has won a Heisman award and has drawn comparisons to Patrick Mahomes.

It'd be wild if the Patriots were bad enough to even have a chance to land Williams. He's not very big, but he's likely going to be a star at the next level. He's got elite playmaking ability.

Drake Maye
The UNC quarterback has the size; he's 6'5" and weighs 220 pounds. He's a great prospect all around and threw 38 touchdown passes in 14 games in 2022 for the Tarheels.

Maye appears to be the second best QB in this class at the moment and can still move adequately even with his large frame.

Bo Nix
The former Auburn and current Oregon product had a shaky first three seasons in college with the Tigers, but transferred for his senior season to the Oregon Ducks.

He threw for 29 touchdowns against seven interceptions and could have declared for the 2023 NFL Draft.

Michael Penix Jr
Michael Penix Jr spent the first four seasons of his college career at Indiana before transferring to Washington for his senior season.

He threw for 31 touchdowns against eight interceptions. He's got a solid frame at 6'3" and does have some nice qualities that teams may look for in a future starter. He's got the mobility down and can make plays on the run.

We could dive into hours and hours of film regarding these players, and there may end up being a few more candidates who peek their heads out in the coming college season, but these appear to be the top names for next year.

Could the Patriots end up drafting one of these players in the 2024 NFL Draft?