The New England Patriots have several pressing needs heading into the NFL offseason. Fortunately, they possess ample cap space and significant draft capital to address these issues.
The most discussed priority is adding a top-tier weapon for Drake Maye. However, an equally crucial concern is strengthening the protection for their young quarterback.
Improving the offensive line is imperative this offseason. To keep Maye healthy and upright, the Patriots must make multiple upgrades in this area.
NFL Network draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah has predicted a move that could address this need. In his latest mock draft, Jeremiah projects the Patriots selecting LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell with the No. 4 overall pick.
“The Patriots must prioritize protecting Drake Maye. Campbell is a reliable, improving talent,” Jeremiah noted on NFL.com.
At 6-foot-6 and 323 pounds, Campbell is a physically dominant presence with elite athleticism and a refined skill set. Despite his youth, he is polished enough to make an immediate impact. The Patriots could also bolster the line further by adding a veteran via free agency.
This offseason is shaping up to be an exciting one for New England. While the Patriots might not be the most appealing destination for free agents, their financial flexibility and reputation as a respected organization should help attract talent.
If the front office succeeds in upgrading the offensive line, the unit could take a significant step forward from its 2024 performance, giving Maye a much better foundation in his second season.
