The New England Patriots entered the 2026 offseason with several needs, led by offensive line and edge defender. They then released their top wide receiver, Stefon Diggs, and created another major need.
The Patriots' offensive line surrendered 47 regular-season sacks and another 21 in the postseason, including six in the Super Bowl. Their edge defenders weren't effective enough in finishing plays with sacks. Both were costly, yet the six sacks allowed in the Super Bowl, along with three turnovers, doomed that effort.
To help replace Diggs, the Patriots signed free agent Romeo Doubs, but their work isn't finished. With only three picks inside the top 100, they'll have to draft smartly. The O-line and edge should take precedence, but wide receiver is also a clear need.
Drafting a top offensive tackle at pick No. 31 makes the most sense for the Patriots. Rookie left tackle Will Campbell had an injury issue in 2025, and right tackle Morgan Moses is 35 years old.
Brad Gagnon of Bleacher Report recently projected offensive tackle Max Iheanachor to the Patriots in his latest mock draft. However, he believes the Patriots should instead pick a wide receiver.
"Will Happen: They draft OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State," Gagnon wrote. "Considering Morgan Moses is 35 and they lack depth along the line, there's been plenty of chatter that the Patriots will add reinforcements there early in this draft. I like Iheanachor more here for his brute power compared to alternatives Blake Miller from Clemson or Caleb Lomu out of Utah.
"Should Happen: They draft WR Denzel Boston, Washington. Adding a receiver who can play a major role right away would have a much bigger early return on this first-round investment for the Pats. We have Boston dropping to this spot, but I'd also recommend using some of those seven picks between Round 4 and 6 to move up a few slots to be sure."
The Patriots may have to choose between protecting Drake Maye or giving him a true weapon in Round 1
Gagnon's suggestion has some merit. Without Diggs, the Patriots lack a true go-to receiver. If Boston is that caliber of player, he'd fill a major need.
Yet, the Patriots' record at drafting receivers high in the draft is sketchy at best. Memories of the N'Keal Harry fiasco linger. The smart play would be to take one of the top seven offensive tackles, if available, at pick No. 31 overall.
Protecting Drake Maye has to be the top priority of any offseason for the Patriots. Failing to do so is not only detrimental to the offense's production but could invite injury and disaster.
While Gagnon's thought is intriguing, it should be a non-factor if Iheanachor or another top tackle is available at No. 31.
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