The NFL Draft (April 24-26, Green Bay) will be the final chance for the Patriots, who have the fourth overall pick, to improve their roster before the 2025 season.
Which players the first three teams (Titans, Browns, Giants) select will limit New England’s options, but plenty of top talent will be available regardless.
Here are three players New England may choose with its first-round pick, and what each player means to the team.
LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell
Despite spending nearly $270 million in free agency, New England failed to add a left tackle. The position is currently the team’s biggest area of need.
Campbell is an athletic, versatile lineman who excelled in his three seasons with LSU. Pro Football Focus’s Trevor Sikkema praised Campbell’s “fundamentals, IQ and competitive toughness,” adding that he “is a starting-caliber player at all five spots on the line.”
New England needs to invest in protecting 22-year-old quarterback Drake Maye, the future of the franchise. Selecting the top-rated lineman in the draft would be a strong start.
Colorado wide receiver/cornerback Travis Hunter
Hunter’s versatility makes him an enticing draft prospect. On offense, he recorded 15 touchdowns and 1,258 receiving yards last season. Defensively, he had four interceptions, one forced fumble and 35 tackles (24 solo, 11 assisted) in 2024.
Hunter would work well with veteran WR Stefon Diggs, signed in March, as the two would make New England’s receiving room the most talented it has been in years. Hunter would also strengthen New England’s already-stellar cornerback room, comprised of Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III.
But whether Hunter’s diverse skill set is more needed than adequate protection for Maye will be for New England’s front office to decide.
Penn State pass-rusher Abdul Carter
The 21-year-old will likely be selected in the top three, but if he falls, New England should give him a look.
According to ESPN, Carter’s acceleration off the edge and rangy frame make him a top prospect. He led the nation with 24 tackles for loss in 2024. Many scouts view him as a player worth selecting regardless of positional need.