Mel Kiper New Mock Draft: Patriots Pick Maye or Marvin?
The New England Patriots need an upgrade at quarterback and that hasn't changed since ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper Jr. unveiled his first mock draft in late January.
One month later, Kiper released the second edition of his first-round predictions, once again pairing the Patriots with a potential franchise field general. As was the case last month, the first three players selected were all quarterbacks.
After the Chicago Bears chose USC's Caleb Williams first overall, the Washington Commanders used their pick on Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels (LSU). With receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., a possible generational talent, available, the Patriots nabbed North Carolina quarterback Drake Maye at No. 3 overall.
Multiple draft analysts have Maye rated as the No. 2 quarterback in the 2024 class, but it likely comes down to a matter of preferred style. Kiper factored Washington's new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury into the decision, saying he like the "fit" for Daniels.
Maye may be just what New England needs to revitalize one of the NFL's least productive offenses from last year. The Patriots, who ranked 30th overall in total offense (276.2), averaged a league-low 13.9 points per game. Their pass offense (180.5) ranked 30th out of 32 teams.
© Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports
Maye recorded 26 starts over the past two seasons for the Tar Heels, earning back-to-back All-Atlantic Coast Conference selections. In 12 games this past fall, the North Carolina native totaled 33 touchdowns (24 pass, 9 rush). He threw for 3,608 yards and gained 449 yards rushing. The numbers represent a drop-off from Maye's 2022 ACC Player of the Year campaign but are impressive, nonetheless.
ESPN Writes:
"As I wrote in my Mock Draft 1.0, quarterback is the Patriots' biggest hole this offseason. The organization can't move forward and get back to competing for AFC East titles until it gets the position right. Mac Jones had a solid rookie season in 2021 but regressed badly the past two seasons; he could be traded or released over the next few months.
So unless New England takes a surprise run at one of the veterans on the market -- Kirk Cousins? Russell Wilson, who is likely to be released? -- Maye makes too much sense. Sure, he's the third passer off the board in this class, but he might be the No. 1 pick in many other drafts. He's No. 5 on my Big Board, has special touch on downfield passes and can deliver every throw with precision."
