In a recent discussion on the Patriots Talk Podcast, Tom Curran from NBC Sports Boston indicated that the New England Patriots would require a significant offer to consider trading down from their No. 3 position in the 2024 NFL draft. According to Curran, even a package deal from the Minnesota Vikings, including the No. 11 and No. 23 picks of the 2024 draft along with a 2025 first-rounder, wouldn’t likely sway the Patriots.
The reason behind the Patriots’ reluctance to move lies in their recognition of the rare opportunity presented by the top three quarterback prospects: USC’s Caleb Williams, LSU’s Jayden Daniels, and North Carolina’s Drake Maye. Any team eyeing these quarterbacks would need to secure one of the top three picks.
The Vikings, in their pursuit of a franchise quarterback to succeed Kirk Cousins, have been linked to the Patriots’ No. 3 pick since their acquisition of draft capital last month, which included the No. 23 pick from the Houston Texans.
Despite possessing two first-round picks, the Vikings might find themselves thwarted by the steep asking prices set by teams like the Patriots. This high demand is evident in recent mock drafts, where the Vikings had to part with a trio of first-round picks to move up to No. 4 and select Michigan quarterback J.J. McCarthy.
This trend underscores the expensive nature of moving up in the draft, particularly for teams eyeing a quarterback projected to make an immediate impact.
The Patriots’ advantageous position in holding a top-three pick only amplifies their bargaining power, especially given their need for a future franchise quarterback. Failing to secure one in the draft would likely lead them to explore options in the open market, making them keen on maximizing trade opportunities for the No. 3 pick.
