The spotlight of the upcoming 2024 NFL draft centers around the Chicago Bears and their pivotal decision with the top overall pick. Will they choose to draft a quarterback like Caleb Williams, or will they trade the pick for a significant return while continuing to build around Justin Fields?
Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders and New England Patriots, drafting closely behind, also find themselves in similar situations as they navigate their rebuilding phases. Speculation from Ian Rapoport of NFL Network suggests that both teams, positioned at the second and third picks respectively, are deliberating their options:
Ian Rapoport @RapSheetFrom @NFLTotalAccess: The #Patriots and #Commanders both face similar calculations.
From @NFLTotalAccess: The #Patriots and #Commanders both face similar calculations. pic.twitter.com/Pb0tVOxEoS
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 28, 2024
Rapoport mentions, “Both are potential trade spots,” highlighting the possibility of these teams securing a franchise quarterback or opting for valuable draft capital. The key question for the Commanders and Patriots, like the Bears, revolves around whether they perceive themselves as one quarterback away from success or if accumulating draft assets is a more prudent strategy.
While this speculation adds intrigue to the pre-draft discussions, it’s important to note that such considerations are common in the lead-up to the draft. Every team assesses potential trades based on the value they receive.
Thus, it’s unlikely that the Commanders or Patriots will forego exploring trade possibilities, even if they identify a coveted quarterback prospect.
Assuming Caleb Williams is selected as the first pick, the Commanders would likely choose between Drake Maye and Jayden Daniels, while the Patriots would evaluate the remaining quarterback options if they decide to pursue that route.
Beyond the options of staying put or trading back to accumulate picks, both teams could also consider trading up to the first pick if the Bears decide to move it. However, such a move would come at a significant cost, as seen in past trades like the one involving the Carolina Panthers.
Both the Commanders and Patriots recognize the importance of addressing their quarterback situations. In Washington, Sam Howell’s performance in his sophomore year showed promise but also highlighted areas for improvement, notably in interceptions and sacks taken.
Meanwhile, in New England, Mac Jones’s tenure has seen fluctuations in performance, prompting speculation about a potential change.
Unlike the Bears, who have Justin Fields showing promise, the Commanders and Patriots face more immediate quarterback needs. This doesn’t necessarily mean they must draft a quarterback in the top three, but it underscores the urgency to find a viable solution.
Perhaps Washington will afford Howell another season to develop, especially considering the challenges he faced behind a struggling offensive line. Similarly, the Patriots may opt to delay their quarterback decision and focus on accumulating assets.
Having a top-three pick in a draft with promising quarterback prospects presents a compelling dilemma for all three teams involved.
