2024 NFL Draft: Patriots Discussion

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

SoSH is the best goddamn forum on the Internet. Plus, new threads are good. Let's put a shit season behind us together, take a break from the BB talk, & focus on the NFL Draft!

We get #3 overall, and due to rotation with ARZ & WASH having same record as us, we get the #2 pick in Round 2 (#34) & #4 (#68) in Round 3. I think we're all in agreement that we desperately need QB, WR, & T, rather that comes via draft, trade, or FA.

But as fate would have it, this draft is thought to be strong in these 3 positions.

Looking at QB:

- Caleb Williams, Southern California.

Likely to be #1 overall pick, but a chance we trade up with CHI means we could have him. Great talent, but IMHO, there are some 'orange flags'. The sitting on the bench refusing to shake hands after loses, & the weird comment about wanting to be part-owner/have a ownership stake in the team that drafts him, aside, there are some salivating traits.

Incredible arm talent, & seems to be able to make all the throws, especially on the run. He can improvise, & make highlight plays. Scouts seem to believe his O-Line at USC were below average, & if he can throw behind a solid OL in the NFL, its thought that he'd be able to succeed as a pocket passer. IOW, he may not need to have to 'force it' every play. But will getting antsy in the pocket if he doesn't have to be something he can correct in the NFL?

At 6'1", he is on the short side, & he carries the ball away from the body, which may be heavily exploited in the Pro game. He also plays an overwhelming majority of his snaps in the shotgun, which these days, seem to be less of a concern.

- Jayden Daniels, Louisiana State.

My personal favourite. True dual-threat. This year's Heisman winner. Amazing elusiveness, and great vision. Good arm strength which allows him to throw to all 3 levels of the field. Can throw well on the run, good footwork.

But while 6'4", he is very skinny. Sure, a NFL-level strength & conditioning programme would help him build muscle, so maybe the below average weight won't be a concern. He does seem less effective from the pocket, & looks inconsistent with his throwing motion, but the dual-threat upside is quite tempting.

- Drake Maye, North Carolina.

No questions about this guy's size. Has good speed too, & would keep defences honest with his scrambling ability. Big arm, who can throw under pressure. Honestly, he reminds me of Josh Allen. Didn't follow him during the season, but reports out there opine he struggles with coverage rotations. Porous OL play may mean his team's season & performance doesn't meet the eye. Risky decisions, inconsistent footwork are other concerns.

- Michael Penix Jr., Washington.

Elite deep ball. Made the WRs on his team better. Has good size & good athleticism, although below weight (see: Daniels). Seems to excel in reading coverages, & progresses his options well. Physical & a good competitor & can manœuvre defences. Lefty, of course, but seems trivial.

Concerns with him are his medicals. ACL tears, injury concerns. Critics point out his advanced age may not be a good indicator for his stats. Arm mechanics seem to be on the slower side.

I'm no expert, nor do I watch as much tape as others here. Just thought I'd kick off discussion on who everyone likes the most for our pick(s). Does anyone else share concerns with Caleb Williams' flags? Drake Maye's mediocre year at UNC? Jayden Daniels' size &/or Penix Jr.'s age & injury history?

Like stated above, Daniels is my guy. But I'm worried he'll go #2 & we 'settle' for Maye. The best thing we can do for either of these guys is to give them weapons & protection. Put them in the best position to succeed. Get an experienced OC who can work best with whomever we draft (assuming its 1 of these 4). Get a veteran QB (yes...yes...easier said than done) who can start while the draft pick learns on the sidelines.

There's also a guy from Tulane, Michael Pratt. Would love to double-dip & select him mid-to-late 3rd on a trade up. We've got to keep attempting to get a hit.

Of course, the elephant in the room is that we have no idea who will be HC, OC, maybe even DC this upcoming season, so we may not know who fits best in whoever's system.

Can give a deal on OTs & WRs later.

 

[triniSox]

Great writeup. I like Jayden Daniels as the pick assuming Caleb goes 1. It'd be interesting if we get Daniels at 4 or 5 by extracting some trade value out of swapping with Arizona at #4 (seeking Marvin Harrison Jr.?) or Chargers at #5 (presumably not going QB?). There is risk but this could move could help the Patriots net an extra early round pick or trade-up (WR? OT?)

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

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[Jake Peavy's Demons]

Great writeup. I like Jayden Daniels as the pick assuming Caleb goes 1. It'd be interesting if we get Daniels at 4 or 5 by extracting some trade value out of swapping with Arizona at #4 (seeking Marvin Harrison Jr.?) or Chargers at #5 (presumably not going QB?). There is risk but this could move could help the Patriots net an extra early round pick or trade-up (WR? OT?)

Ha, thanks. I made this thread immediately after our regular season, but it appeared to die on the vine. Plus, there's a lot more (& better) discussion here:

https://sonsofsamhorn.net/index.php?threads/official-patriots-2024-draft-pick-watch-thread-3.40704/

 

[Cellar-Door]

Stuff went to the main board because the team was so bad. I assume the subforum will pick up closer to the draft when SMU starts his posts

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

A few have expressed interest in me containing this & posting about WRs & OTs. Again, I'm no expert here, just a guy who wants nothing more than to have a great offence again & get back to the playoffs ASAP.

I'll try my best to designate these guys as either Xs or Zs. Unlike QBs, there are more options here if they choose to pursue someone via FA or trade via the likes of Mike Evans, Tee Higgins (unlikely), etc. Also, I learned on here (thanks! @DJnVa) that Emeka Egbuka, WR from Ohio State, has decided to stay in school for next year & will not be in 2024 draft, which means 1 less prospect (although I had some questions on him).

- X/Z Marvin Harrison, Jr., Ohio State.

THE guy on top of everyones wishlist, no matter what type of WR he is. Great size at 6'4", projected a fantastic 40 yard if he runs and an ELITE shuttle time. He began climbing up people's boards & gaining eyeballs when, despite double teams & press coverages, contuined to produce last year as a sophomore, going 77/1263/14. He can also make the tough catch in traffic & displays soft hands. Elite route-running. Crucially, can play outside AND/OR slot. Did you also know his dad was a NFLer? No clue who he might've been, though.

This guy really has it all, & is as close to a slam dunk since...who...Joe Thomas? And this is a skill position. Also, he is more-than-willing to be a downfield blocker. Really the perfect WR prospect. The only knocks are he doesn't seem to break too many tackles (which might be a business decision until he plays Sundays) & may not be as secure as he needs to with the ball.

- Z Malik Nabers, Louisiana State.

This lad is also an elite route runner. He is explosive & a remarkable athlete. He can time his jumps QUICK and demonstrates a lot of strength too. Solid deep threat (posts, comebacks, & corners {but not necessarily flys or gos}), & a YAC machine. Probably already better than DeVante Parker at high-pointing that ball & coming down with it.

Good corners can slow him down, & he struggles to gain separation with longer-developing routes. I've also seen some concerns about his motor, but just like MH2, may be more of a business decision on his part.

- X Rome Odunze, Washington

Elite 40-time, and good height (6’3”). Tremendous on his vertical route tree, and changes direction effortlessly. DCs who attempted to scheme against him in zone would later go on to regret their decision at the end of the evening. This shows he has great field/spatial awareness, able to find those open areas. Very good body control, and like Nabers, can really high-point throws in his direction. I’ve read he has tremendous catch radii. He is elusive enough where it is thought he can also be a YAC machine. Can adapt with the best of them, & has great concentration.

He does struggle with press, as he seems to fall under (was it) Bart Scott’s philosophy of ‘we physical, they finesse’. Can get jammed at the line. Again, will a NFL S&C programme bulking him up means he will realise his potential?

- X Brian Thomas Jr., Louisiana State.

Nabers’ (& Daniels’) teammate. Good height at 6’4”, average weight. Concentration: very good. Hands: solid/above-average, strong hands that’ll bring those passes in. Excels in the middle-of-the-field, & shows courage to make those tough catches in traffic. Good body control and feet too, and shows enough elusiveness to avoid tackles. Can also be used for deep throws and can adjust if throws aren’t on the money.

Average speed and athleticism, and may not excel against other defenders in the NFL, so he’ll need to utilise his above-average hands and concentration to succeed. If jammed at the line, he gets out-of-sync & is more likely to play the role of Byron Russell against Michael Jordan when hand-fighting. IOW, could use some improvement.

- X Keon Coleman, Florida State

6’4” (seems a trend). This is a guy who does excel at hand-fighting, and is very efficient with his routes. Can adjust in the air, and has amazing acceleration to boot. He wants the ball everytime, and shows everyone his tremendous agility, instincts, speed, twitch, & physicality. Also apparently played CBB under Tom Izzo?

For what this guy has in physical traits, he could use more polish on his route-running. Also despite his traits, he isn’t as willing to participate in Edelman’s school of run-blocking. If he can improve his route-running & understand a team is the sum of all parts, IMHO, I think he’ll be the 1b to MH2’s 1a (IOW, just as good).

- X Troy Franklin, Oregon.

Elite speed, very good route-running, destroys man coverage, tall at 6’3”, tremendous agility.

Zone coverages can be used to limit him, so he needs to find a way to overcome this. Lighter side of weight and average blocker (but willing!). Also average strength & has lapses in concentration, where he’ll want to turn and run before he sees the ball in his hands &/or body.

- X Adonai Mitchell, Texas

Outside the numbers, this is a guy who can make those catches. He is able to gain separation at the middle-of-the-field too. Tasty quickness from scrimmage, and has good size & strength. YAC machine, but in a different way: more violent/physical then elusiveness.

Tendency to catch passes with his body, and while he is excellent outside the numbers, is inconsistent.

- WR Ladd McConkey, Georgia.

Pass.

(Just kidding, I’m not Bill James.)

I think this guy may excel most as a Z, not an X? Very good quickness in small areas to create space between him and the defender, but also, good vertical speed to run away from defenders and to be used as a weapon for seam routes. Precise route-runner, and a very good outside blocker. But he has very good traits as a vertical receiver, suggesting he can do well as a X WR too.

While great at seams, he struggles to be consistent with separation. I’ve read the transition from ball-catcher to runner once he has the ball in his hands leads something to be desired.

- X Devontez Walker, North Carolina.

Drake Maye’s teammate. Vertical threat, tall, and strong hands. Tracks the ball and also excels in small-area quickness. Great seam target. Can adjust well to less-than-ideal throws downfield.

Limited route tree, and as a vertical threat, does not have elite playing speed.

I believe @EL Jeffe is a fan.

- Z Xavier Worthy, Texas.

Read he had a 4.29 40 yard!? Classic playmaker: putting the ball in his hands will make things happen. A monster at slants. Explosive burst allows him to stretch the field, and he is very smooth. Very good route runner, reliable hands. Not scared to go across the middle. Very, very good versatility. Acceleration is top-class; with his pace, getting to top-speed so quickly is a weapon.

Struggles a bit with zone. Because his below-average weight, he may be susceptible to NFL defenders knocking him and disrupting his route. This lad has a major injury risk to him too. I am seeing some similiarites to Pop Douglas, IMHO. Maybe he is a rich man’s edition of Pop.

@canderson, would love your opinion on both Mitchell & Worthy.


Other guys:

X Johnny Wilson, Florida State (6’7” height)

Z Malachi Corley, Western Kentucky

Z Ja’Lynn Polk, Washington

Z J. Michael Sturdivant, California-Los Angeles

Z Jalen McMillan, Washington

Z Xavier Legette, South Carolina

One thing about the other Washington guys is that I wonder how much of Odunze’s gravity lead to Polk & McMillan enjoying their success. Lazy thought, but if they are more of a main focus of DCs, can they lead their team(s) to productivity on the offensive side? Perhaps not a fair criticism.

Another thing, remember when we made fun of Houston for drafting at #2 and then trading up to #3? Well, call me crazy, but I am starting to dream of something similar. After all, it was Arizona (#4, 2024) whom Houston traded up for last year. Maybe not #4, but if we can go #3, and trade up to #7, #8, I'd love Keon Coleman. Although I have seen him trending in Round 2 on PFF. I realise we have a TONNE of needs elsewhere so this won't happen and is prohibitive.

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

OL:

From what I understand, in the non-too-distant-past, our left-side would play more physical, man-blocking, while our right-side would play more zone? Reckon we can throw away all past indicators from other drafts, unless we feel Eliot Wolf (or whomever) will continue the old blueprint. I haven't the slightest clue on OL. You can at least eye the WRs/QBs, etc. But OL is tough.

Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State
Joe Alt, Notre Dame
Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State

These 3 guys I have seen be the consensus Top 3. I don’t think we could go wrong with any of them (if we aren’t picking #3).

I said it somewhere else, but JC Latham played RT last year. Can he play LT effectively in the NFL? If he is strictly a RT, I’d say that may hurt his value, but Penei Sewell and Darnell Wright both play RT.

Other guys:

Amarius Mims, Georgia
Patrick Paul, Houston
Troy Fautanu, Washington
Jordan Morgan, Arizona
Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma
Kingsley Suamataia, Brigham Young

I’ve also seen these 2 guys listed at OT, but OG in other places:

Graham Barton, Duke
Zak Zinter, Michigan

And a couple of centres:

Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon
Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia

I am not sure we need any OGs. Sow started at the end of the year, we have Andrews at depth, & Strange has been discussed at length. So I don't think we'll draft any Gs to play as such. We may also consider a C, unless Jake Andrews is the guy. PFR lists him as C. David Andrews is 31, and we may want to get younger at the position.

 

[Eck'sSneakyCheese]

Great primer for what’s shaping up to be a really interesting draft. How some of these guys measure up during the combine and pro days should separate some from the others.

The QBs all have warts. I like orange flags, because none are really deal breakers but they still leave some aspects in question. Now that McCarthy is in would you put him in that grouping?

MHJ is the best player in this draft. I didn’t think we’d be in a position to draft him but here we are. This is kid is going to thrive in the NFL. He is the guy you have to plan for. The guy defenses will be afraid of. As long as it’s not Mac Jones throwing the ball…

 

[NextBigThing8184]

I think Mims could go above Fuaga. He is going to be a freak at the combine and has a higher ceiling albeit a much lower floor. There’s a solid chance he ends up going in the top 12

 

[nolasoxfan]

SoSH is the best goddamn forum on the Internet. Plus, new threads are good. Let's put a shit season behind us together, take a break from the BB talk, & focus on the NFL Draft!

We get #3 overall, and due to rotation with ARZ & WASH having same record as us, we get the #2 pick in Round 2 (#34) & #4 (#68) in Round 3. I think we're all in agreement that we desperately need QB, WR, & T, rather that comes via draft, trade, or FA.

But as fate would have it, this draft is thought to be strong in these 3 positions.

Looking at QB:

- Caleb Williams, Southern California.

Likely to be #1 overall pick, but a chance we trade up with CHI means we could have him. Great talent, but IMHO, there are some 'orange flags'. The sitting on the bench refusing to shake hands after loses, & the weird comment about wanting to be part-owner/have a ownership stake in the team that drafts him, aside, there are some salivating traits.

Incredible arm talent, & seems to be able to make all the throws, especially on the run. He can improvise, & make highlight plays. Scouts seem to believe his O-Line at USC were below average, & if he can throw behind a solid OL in the NFL, its thought that he'd be able to succeed as a pocket passer. IOW, he may not need to have to 'force it' every play. But will getting antsy in the pocket if he doesn't have to be something he can correct in the NFL?

At 6'1", he is on the short side, & he carries the ball away from the body, which may be heavily exploited in the Pro game. He also plays an overwhelming majority of his snaps in the shotgun, which these days, seem to be less of a concern.

- Jayden Daniels, Louisiana State.

My personal favourite. True dual-threat. This year's Heisman winner. Amazing elusiveness, and great vision. Good arm strength which allows him to throw to all 3 levels of the field. Can throw well on the run, good footwork.

But while 6'4", he is very skinny. Sure, a NFL-level strength & conditioning programme would help him build muscle, so maybe the below average weight won't be a concern. He does seem less effective from the pocket, & looks inconsistent with his throwing motion, but the dual-threat upside is quite tempting.

- Drake Maye, North Carolina.

No questions about this guy's size. Has good speed too, & would keep defences honest with his scrambling ability. Big arm, who can throw under pressure. Honestly, he reminds me of Josh Allen. Didn't follow him during the season, but reports out there opine he struggles with coverage rotations. Porous OL play may mean his team's season & performance doesn't meet the eye. Risky decisions, inconsistent footwork are other concerns.

- Michael Penix Jr., Washington.

Elite deep ball. Made the WRs on his team better. Has good size & good athleticism, although below weight (see: Daniels). Seems to excel in reading coverages, & progresses his options well. Physical & a good competitor & can manœuvre defences. Lefty, of course, but seems trivial.

Concerns with him are his medicals. ACL tears, injury concerns. Critics point out his advanced age may not be a good indicator for his stats. Arm mechanics seem to be on the slower side.

I'm no expert, nor do I watch as much tape as others here. Just thought I'd kick off discussion on who everyone likes the most for our pick(s). Does anyone else share concerns with Caleb Williams' flags? Drake Maye's mediocre year at UNC? Jayden Daniels' size &/or Penix Jr.'s age & injury history?

Like stated above, Daniels is my guy. But I'm worried he'll go #2 & we 'settle' for Maye. The best thing we can do for either of these guys is to give them weapons & protection. Put them in the best position to succeed. Get an experienced OC who can work best with whomever we draft (assuming its 1 of these 4). Get a veteran QB (yes...yes...easier said than done) who can start while the draft pick learns on the sidelines.

There's also a guy from Tulane, Michael Pratt. Would love to double-dip & select him mid-to-late 3rd on a trade up. We've got to keep attempting to get a hit.

Of course, the elephant in the room is that we have no idea who will be HC, OC, maybe even DC this upcoming season, so we may not know who fits best in whoever's system.

Can give a deal on OTs & WRs later.

Happy to see you referenced Pratt. I haven’t seen his name mentioned in many of the Pats draft day scenarios. I am an unapologetic Tulane homer, but I think Pratt has a skill set that could translate; likely a day 2 draftee that needs a year under NFL tutelage, though. Anyway, here’s a quick review I picked up off the inter webs— not vouching for its analysis.

View: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEV9xZpgYrQ

Edit: adding a piece from the Draft Network:
https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2024/01/19/michael-pratt-scouting-report-nfl-draft-2024

 

[DennyDoyle'sBoil]

Great writeup. I like Jayden Daniels as the pick assuming Caleb goes 1. It'd be interesting if we get Daniels at 4 or 5 by extracting some trade value out of swapping with Arizona at #4 (seeking Marvin Harrison Jr.?) or Chargers at #5 (presumably not going QB?). There is risk but this could move could help the Patriots net an extra early round pick or trade-up (WR? OT?)

All that seems a little scary. I don’t know how the Patriots trade 3 if they want Daniels. Even if the Cards want MJH, once you trade the pick couldn’t they trade it again? Or screw you and take Daniels?

Could they draft MJH with a promised trade from the Cardinals worked out in advance?

 

[DJnVa]

All that seems a little scary. I don’t know how the Patriots trade 3 if they want Daniels. Even if the Cards want MJH, once you trade the pick couldn’t they trade it again? Or screw you and take Daniels?

Could they draft MJH with a promised trade from the Cardinals worked out in advance?

I assume teams would have enough discussion that if they trade with AZ they know exactly who AZ will take. AZ saying they want to come get MHJ then drafting a QB is likely something that just isn't done, because you don't want that kind of rep.

That said, if the Pats make the trade they at least have to know they're okay with not getting the guy they want and are getting enough in return to take that risk.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

All that seems a little scary. I don’t know how the Patriots trade 3 if they want Daniels. Even if the Cards want MJH, once you trade the pick couldn’t they trade it again? Or screw you and take Daniels?

Could they draft MJH with a promised trade from the Cardinals worked out in advance?

If you’re trading to 5, presumably LAC is coming up for Harrison in which case Arizona is open for business for QB3. Wouldn’t make sense if you wanted a QB.

 

[DennyDoyle'sBoil]

Are you allowed to trade players in the NFL draft still? I'm pretty sure that you are. So, I suppose the Patriots could select MJH at 3 with an agreement with Arizona to trade him for pick number 4 plus a later round pick.

Though if you're Arizona do you do that deal? Not sure why you would. Once the Patriots offer it, you know that they don't want MJH, so really you can just say "no thanks" and take him at 4 without giving anything up. I guess what you have to worry about is the Patriots trading out of the spot to someone else who wants MJH. I suppose if the Cardinals absolutely know they want MJH and he's on the board after the second pick, and the Patriots know they want Daniels, it would make a lot of sense for the Cardinals to give up something -- maybe not the classic points equivalent. They get their guy and the Patriots get something for nothing.

 

[nighthob]

Are you allowed to trade players in the NFL draft still? I'm pretty sure that you are. So, I suppose the Patriots could select MJH at 3 with an agreement with Arizona to trade him for pick number 4 plus a later round pick.

Though if you're Arizona do you do that deal? Not sure why you would. Once the Patriots offer it, you know that they don't want MJH, so really you can just say "no thanks" and take him at 4 without giving anything up. I guess what you have to worry about is the Patriots trading out of the spot to someone else who wants MJH. I suppose if the Cardinals absolutely know they want MJH and he's on the board after the second pick, and the Patriots know they want Daniels, it would make a lot of sense for the Cardinals to give up something -- maybe not the classic points equivalent. They get their guy and the Patriots get something for nothing.

They could talk to Chicago about a trade down, which might inspire the Cardinals to deal.

 

[ehaz]

Senior Bowl measurements for a few of the potential early round tackles:

View: https://twitter.com/seniorbowl/status/1752049925678833878


View: https://twitter.com/seniorbowl/status/1752050086224220614


View: https://twitter.com/seniorbowl/status/1752072816499773697


View: https://twitter.com/seniorbowl/status/1752071605641966050

View: https://twitter.com/seniorbowl/status/1752080153620951420

 

[NextBigThing8184]

Paul is one of the most obvious examples of a guy who can really move up with a great combine. He’s going to need a lot of coaching and technique refinement in the pros but if if tests well, some team will convince themselves his raw ability is work the developmental work he needs and he will go in that 20-45 range

Fuaga is an absolute beast of a RT. Wouldn’t surprise me at all if he goes top 15 or top 12.

Half of the top 40 picks this year could come from QB, WR and OT. I just hope there’s a run on defense somewhere to push some of these guys to the Pats in the 2nd

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

Yeah, the more I think about it, I want an OT at 34. There are so many WRs in this upcoming draft, and it would hurt not to get one. But I can see how QB (3) & OT (34) is the better route. Invest in your QB you've drafted by building a good O-Line first. Daniels/Maye hopefully will be given more time to throw to the likes of Pop Douglas, Kendrick Bourne (if he comes back), Hunter Henry (if he comes back). That might be a better option than Daniels/Maye having less time, getting no protection, stunting their progression, and throwing to Keon Coleman/Adonai Mitchell/Xavier Worthy.

Maybe lay the foundation for the QB & O-Line, then really go for WR in 2025: Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka, Tetairoa McMillan.

I'd love to somehow grab 2 2nds in this draft via a trade up for future picks & grab a WR AND OT in the Top 50 picks (alongside a QB). But we have way too many needs all across the board.

 

[Saints Rest]

Yeah, the more I think about it, I want an OT at 34. There are so many WRs in this upcoming draft, and it would hurt not to get one. But I can see how QB (3) & OT (34) is the better route. Invest in your QB you've drafted by building a good O-Line first. Daniels/Maye hopefully will be given more time to throw to the likes of Pop Douglas, Kendrick Bourne (if he comes back), Hunter Henry (if he comes back). That might be a better option than Daniels/Maye having less time, getting no protection, stunting their progression, and throwing to Keon Coleman/Adonai Mitchell/Xavier Worthy.

Maybe lay the foundation for the QB & O-Line, then really go for WR in 2025: Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka, Tetairoa McMillan.

I'd love to somehow grab 2 2nds in this draft via a trade up for future picks & grab a WR AND OT in the Top 50 picks (alongside a QB). But we have way too many needs all across the board.

I agree adding that WR seems a much better source of potential FA improvements for this coming season.

 

[NextBigThing8184]

I agree adding that WR seems a much better source of potential FA improvements for this coming season.

agreed but they’ll need to add some veteran tackles as well if both Brown and Onwenu leave. Would almost assuredly be downgraded at both spots unfortunately.

tackle at the top of the 2nd or trading back into the end of the 1st makes the most sense

 

[ehaz]

Yeah, the more I think about it, I want an OT at 34. There are so many WRs in this upcoming draft, and it would hurt not to get one. But I can see how QB (3) & OT (34) is the better route. Invest in your QB you've drafted by building a good O-Line first. Daniels/Maye hopefully will be given more time to throw to the likes of Pop Douglas, Kendrick Bourne (if he comes back), Hunter Henry (if he comes back). That might be a better option than Daniels/Maye having less time, getting no protection, stunting their progression, and throwing to Keon Coleman/Adonai Mitchell/Xavier Worthy.

Maybe lay the foundation for the QB & O-Line, then really go for WR in 2025: Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka, Tetairoa McMillan.

I'd love to somehow grab 2 2nds in this draft via a trade up for future picks & grab a WR AND OT in the Top 50 picks (alongside a QB). But we have way too many needs all across the board.

Maybe the best "trade-up" value will be from the third round back into the second if you feel a top 50 talent at WR starts slipping a bit in the 2nd round. #68 is almost a 2nd round pick anyways so you'd think moving up to #56ish shouldn't cost a fortune if the right guy is there.

#3: Daniels
#34: OT (e.g., Paul / Guyton / Morgan)

*Trade back into the second*

#58 pick: falling WR (Legette? Mitchell? McConkey?)

 

[P'tucket rhymes with...]

That's quite the arm span that Patrick Paul is sporting.

 

[ehaz]

I want Johnny Wilson. Give me the freak of nature. I want him and Demario Douglas to line up next to each other on every snap. How fun would that be...

View: https://twitter.com/jt_ruhnke/status/1752765971511591304

 

[DJnVa]

Is @SMU_Sox still around?

 

[Auger34]

Is @SMU_Sox still around?

I was just about to post the same thing. Surprised we haven't seen anything from him yet

 

[Jimbodandy]

Anyone wish a working Twitter account might be able to find him there.

 

[ekim colorwaterpit]

Anyone wish a working Twitter account might be able to find him there.

Maybe he changed his Twitter handle or the change to x messed it up, but I can't find him on Twitter anymore

 

[Jimbodandy]

Maybe he changed his Twitter handle or the change to x messed it up, but I can't find him on Twitter anymore

Balls. Hope he's doing ok. He might have nuked his Twitter like some of us did.

 

[SMU_Sox]

Balls. Hope he's doing ok. He might have nuked his Twitter like some of us did.

I am doing well but life has been ridiculous the last 6 months. Just brutal at work, got full custody of son #2, moved to Philly, getting son #2 into the college search process, oh and we are expecting a baby boy on... April 25th the first day of the draft (my oldest will be 20 and I will have an infant, lol). I usually love this time of year but I haven't been able to do much minus I have watched all 6 QBs thoroughly and the top WR and OT prospects. I will likely have a top 100 before the draft. And yes I nuked my Twitter when Musk said "You have said the actual truth" and promoted an anti-Semitic tweet. I was already questioning how much longer I would stay but that was the tipping point. No amount of NFL draft discussion is worth it if I am supporting someone like that. I honestly don't know where my next home will be draft content wise. All I want is a place to put up cutups and discuss stuff. If any of you have recommendations I would be game. I have about 2 more weeks of work hell before I transfer off my current account (PepsiCo Foods NA) to my next one (PepsiCo Bottling/Beverages). My new boss is a Patriots fan and wants me to be able to have a better work life balance so I can actively pursue my hobbies like the NFL draft. So... 1) I am hoping next year I will be able to be a lot more active and 2) I am also hoping the first week of April I will be able to post more here.

 

[Jimbodandy]

I am doing well but life has been ridiculous the last 6 months. Just brutal at work, got full custody of son #2, moved to Philly, getting son #2 into the college search process, oh and we are expecting a baby boy on... April 25th the first day of the draft (my oldest will be 20 and I will have an infant, lol). I usually love this time of year but I haven't been able to do much minus I have watched all 6 QBs thoroughly and the top WR and OT prospects. I will likely have a top 100 before the draft. And yes I nuked my Twitter when Musk said "You have said the actual truth" and promoted an anti-Semitic tweet. I was already questioning how much longer I would stay but that was the tipping point. No amount of NFL draft discussion is worth it if I am supporting someone like that. I honestly don't know where my next home will be draft content wise. All I want is a place to put up cutups and discuss stuff. If any of you have recommendations I would be game. I have about 2 more weeks of work hell before I transfer off my current account (PepsiCo Foods NA) to my next one (PepsiCo Bottling/Beverages). My new boss is a Patriots fan and wants me to be able to have a better work life balance so I can actively pursue my hobbies like the NFL draft. So... 1) I am hoping next year I will be able to be a lot more active and 2) I am also hoping the first week of April I will be able to post more here.

Good to see that you're doing well. If you're going to be at max capacity, at least that stuff you mentioned is great news.

 

[Cellar-Door]

I am doing well but life has been ridiculous the last 6 months. Just brutal at work, got full custody of son #2, moved to Philly, getting son #2 into the college search process, oh and we are expecting a baby boy on... April 25th the first day of the draft (my oldest will be 20 and I will have an infant, lol). I usually love this time of year but I haven't been able to do much minus I have watched all 6 QBs thoroughly and the top WR and OT prospects. I will likely have a top 100 before the draft. And yes I nuked my Twitter when Musk said "You have said the actual truth" and promoted an anti-Semitic tweet. I was already questioning how much longer I would stay but that was the tipping point. No amount of NFL draft discussion is worth it if I am supporting someone like that. I honestly don't know where my next home will be draft content wise. All I want is a place to put up cutups and discuss stuff. If any of you have recommendations I would be game. I have about 2 more weeks of work hell before I transfer off my current account (PepsiCo Foods NA) to my next one (PepsiCo Bottling/Beverages). My new boss is a Patriots fan and wants me to be able to have a better work life balance so I can actively pursue my hobbies like the NFL draft. So... 1) I am hoping next year I will be able to be a lot more active and 2) I am also hoping the first week of April I will be able to post more here.

Congrats on the kid

 

[BaseballJones]

Hang in there, @SMU_Sox - you're one of the good guys and you are missed here big time. Congrats on the kiddo.

 

[jpronh]

I am doing well but life has been ridiculous the last 6 months. Just brutal at work, got full custody of son #2, moved to Philly, getting son #2 into the college search process, oh and we are expecting a baby boy on... April 25th the first day of the draft (my oldest will be 20 and I will have an infant, lol). I usually love this time of year but I haven't been able to do much minus I have watched all 6 QBs thoroughly and the top WR and OT prospects. I will likely have a top 100 before the draft. And yes I nuked my Twitter when Musk said "You have said the actual truth" and promoted an anti-Semitic tweet. I was already questioning how much longer I would stay but that was the tipping point. No amount of NFL draft discussion is worth it if I am supporting someone like that. I honestly don't know where my next home will be draft content wise. All I want is a place to put up cutups and discuss stuff. If any of you have recommendations I would be game. I have about 2 more weeks of work hell before I transfer off my current account (PepsiCo Foods NA) to my next one (PepsiCo Bottling/Beverages). My new boss is a Patriots fan and wants me to be able to have a better work life balance so I can actively pursue my hobbies like the NFL draft. So... 1) I am hoping next year I will be able to be a lot more active and 2) I am also hoping the first week of April I will be able to post more here.

Super Lurker who followed you on Twitter as well because I loved your analysis...just glad to hear you're still out there!!

 

[Justthetippett]

I am doing well but life has been ridiculous the last 6 months. Just brutal at work, got full custody of son #2, moved to Philly, getting son #2 into the college search process, oh and we are expecting a baby boy on... April 25th the first day of the draft (my oldest will be 20 and I will have an infant, lol). I usually love this time of year but I haven't been able to do much minus I have watched all 6 QBs thoroughly and the top WR and OT prospects. I will likely have a top 100 before the draft. And yes I nuked my Twitter when Musk said "You have said the actual truth" and promoted an anti-Semitic tweet. I was already questioning how much longer I would stay but that was the tipping point. No amount of NFL draft discussion is worth it if I am supporting someone like that. I honestly don't know where my next home will be draft content wise. All I want is a place to put up cutups and discuss stuff. If any of you have recommendations I would be game. I have about 2 more weeks of work hell before I transfer off my current account (PepsiCo Foods NA) to my next one (PepsiCo Bottling/Beverages). My new boss is a Patriots fan and wants me to be able to have a better work life balance so I can actively pursue my hobbies like the NFL draft. So... 1) I am hoping next year I will be able to be a lot more active and 2) I am also hoping the first week of April I will be able to post more here.

Can't you tell your boss it's just sugar water and you have more important things to do like find the Pats an LT steal in the 5th round? As, RKK says, this team is an institution that affects the regional mood, and winning is likely to boost sales.

Welcome back.

 

[Cellar-Door]

View: https://twitter.com/TonyPauline/status/1771622067688903140?t=S32NkzRciN6y68a_Q-Hj_w&s=19


First top 30 for the Pats I've seen

 

[nighthob]

Their focus on Day 3 receivers is pretty telling (I've seen them linked to Brendan Rice as well).

 

[Devizier]

If the consensus boards are anywhere close to correct, the best the Patriots can do is a project type or a projected lower ceiling guy at tackle, right? Wonder if they can trade back with their second to pick up more shots at a deep position (eg WR).

 

[brendan f]

Happy to see you referenced Pratt. I haven’t seen his name mentioned in many of the Pats draft day scenarios. I am an unapologetic Tulane homer, but I think Pratt has a skill set that could translate; likely a day 2 draftee that needs a year under NFL tutelage, though. Anyway, here’s a quick review I picked up off the inter webs— not vouching for its analysis.

Could see the Pats taking him if they move down and acquire elite talents on the OL and at WR, with an eye on next year's draft for their QB1. There doesn't seem to be anything particularly special about him but he's decent at a lot of things. One of the guys from PFF said he had a dominant opening game this year, suffered an injury and was never quite the same, so maybe there's upside? More likely a back-up type.

 

[Mugsy's Jock]

In a few mock drafts, I saw Pratt in the 5th round and felt he was a great double-dip candidate. Let Jacoby start the season with Maye working the clipboard for a while, get Maye’s feet wet in the last third of the season, and have Pratt as QB2 in 2025.

 

[Cellar-Door]

Not sure which of the many threads it fits in, but I'll go with this one....

30 visits starting to leak out, here is what we have for the Patriots so far:

• Javon Baker, Wide Receiver, Central Florida
• Jayden Daniels, Quarterback, LSU
• Drake Maye, Quarterback, North Carolina
• Jalyx Hunt, Edge, Houston Christian
• Darrell Simpson, Offensive Tackle, Tulsa
• Kingsley Suamataia, Offensive Tackle, BYU
• Jared Wylie TE, TCU
• Blake Fisher, OT Notre Dame

 

[SMU_Sox]

Baker is a prototypical X but not a blazer. Fisher and Suamataia are younger athletic guys with the measurables that the Packers would love.
Unlike many of BYU’s players Suamataia is a transfer and young. He is 21 right now.

 

[Cellar-Door]

Baker is a prototypical X but not a blazer. Fisher and Suamataia are younger athletic guys with the measurables that the Packers would love.
Unlike many of BYU’s players Suamataia is a transfer and young. He is 21 right now.

I want Suamataia to make it to 34 so badly...

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

Blake Fisher, OT Notre Dame

What is the deal with Fisher? IIRC he was a top T prospect for the 2024 Draft shortly after the 2023 Draft concluded. Is it just that Joe Alt looks like a future superstar at the position? Maybe the coaching & seeing Alt in practice can help Fisher's NFL prospective career.

 

[Cellar-Door]

What is the deal with Fisher? IIRC he was a top T prospect for the 2024 Draft shortly after the 2023 Draft concluded. Is it just that Joe Alt looks like a future superstar at the position? Maybe the coaching & seeing Alt in practice can help Fisher's NFL prospective career.

I think the knocks on him have been inconsistent technique, and he's not the athlete a lot of guys in this draft are. He's still around top 100 on the consensus board, so it's not like he took a nosedive, just got passed by guys who were better athletes and had better years.

 

[DJnVa]

The Athletic just released their HUGE draft guide: NFL Draft 2024 ‘The Beast’ Guide: Dane Brugler’s scouting reports and player rankings - The Athletic

Snippets of likely QBs (and MHJ) at #3:

Maye (#2 QB, #4 overall): Overall, Maye needs to cut down on the reckless decisions, but he is a well-put-together passer with the on-field command, athletic instincts and arm talent to create solutions for the problems that NFL defenses present. With his physical gifts and smarts, he is cut from the same cloth as Justin Herbert and has a similar ceiling as an NFL player.

Daniels (#3 QB, #8 overall): Overall, Daniels is a smooth point guard from the pocket when his eyes stay on schedule, and his dazzling run skills make him a problem for defenses. This isn’t an apples-to-apples comparison, but NFL scouts say he forces opponents to defend him like Lamar Jackson

McCarthy (#4 QB, #21 overall): Overall, McCarthy’s evaluation feels incomplete, which creates even more projection than normal, but his passing skills, pocket athleticism and mental makeup are all ascending and create optimism for his NFL future. Although bumps along the way should be expected, he has the package of tools to become an NFL starter early in his career.

MHJ (#1 WR, #2 overall): . Overall, Harrison has dominant receiving traits and can win from anywhere on the field, because of his athletic gifts, route savvy and adjustment/finishing skills at the catch point. He is among the best receiving prospects to enter the NFL in recent memory, and he has the dedication to his craft to be a playmaking No. 1 NFL receiver and future All-Pro.


Couple of QBs mentioned either at #34 or if there's trade down in 1st round:

Nix (#5 QB, #44 overall): Overall, Nix gets in trouble when he plays loose with his technique and his eyes speed up on him, but he understands where to go with the football, and his scrambling can give defenses fits. Though it feels unlikely that he will ever rank among the 15 best quarterbacks in the NFL, he has the tools to become a middle-of-the-road starter.

Penix (#6 QB, #52 overall): Overall, Penix is inconsistent in several key areas (mechanics, anticipation, pressure reaction), but his arm confidence and willingness to attack every square inch of the field can be a productive formula in the right situation. His mental toughness will be a strong selling point in NFL draft rooms.

I doubt we trade down and draft a WR at #6 (or something), but who knows?

Nabors (#2 WR, #3 overall): Overall, Nabers has only average size/strength, but he offers dynamic potential, because of his ability to accelerate/decelerate on command and always make himself available with his athletic catch-point skills. He projects as a playmaking receiver in the NFL.

Odunze: (#3 WR, #6 overall): Odunze is an above average height/weight/speed athlete with the pass-catching instincts and competitive focus to be a playmaking NFL receiver. He projects as a true X receiver and has the skill level to elevate his quarterback’s play (stylistically similar to Drake London.

WRs around #34:

McConkey (#5 WR, #31 overall): Overall, McConkey’s size and vulnerability to injuries aren’t ideal, but he is a sudden, skilled route runner and uses synchronized shake to tie defensive backs in knots. He is a quarterback-friendly target with the inside-outside versatility to be a quality No. 2 option for an NFL offense.

Mitchell (#6 WR, #33 overall): Overall, Mitchell needs to become a more detail-focused receiver to fully unlock his talent, but he has the body length, loose athleticism and catch-pointskills to be a chain-moving weapon. He projects as a rangy, outside-the-numbers target with the lean, limber body type reminiscent of the late Chris Henry.

Coleman (#7 WR, #37 overall): Overall, Coleman must develop more nuance to his route running, but his big-man twitch, physicality and ball-winning adjustment skills allow him to be a difference maker. With continued refinement, he has the talent to be an NFL starter (similar in ways to Courtland Sutton).

Wilson (#8 WR, #41 overall): Overall, Wilson is a speedy slot with the hands and competitive makeup to pester defenses and consistently move the sticks. He has the talent to win a startin g role for an NFL offense.

There's so much there, go read yourself. I could literally include anyone and they have some sort of fit here.

 

[Saints Rest]

How about the OTs who might be available at 34 and 68?

 

[DJnVa]

How about the OTs who might be available at 34 and 68?

That's why I gave link

They have 5 OT in top 19, so assuming they're gone:

Guyton (#6 OT, #27 overall): Overall, Guyton is a work in progress in several areas and a steep learning curve should be expected for his rookie season, but he has the athletic tools and fundamental skills to develop into a high-level offensive tackle. He has the talent to play left or right tackle, although his comfort level is clearly on the right side . As long as he stays motivated and healthy, he will continue on an upward trajectory.

Suamataia (#7/#40): Overall, Suamataia is still very young and lacks refinement in several areas, but his blend of size, mobility and core power are the foundation of a scheme-diverse NFL starter. He will require a patient coaching staff who can ease his transition to the pro level.

Paul (#8/#59): Overall, Paul has the size and length to keep defenders occupied, but his rhythm breaks down quickly, and opponents will find success until he improves his rudimentary recovery technique and hand usage. Similar in ways to Chukwuma Okorafor (my note: current Patriot, so might be good guy to play behind/with), he has the tools to develop into a functional NFL starter, but he might require a redshirt year.

Coleman (#9/#66): Overall, Coleman needs to improve his technical consistency, but his ease of movement, spatial awareness and length are the building blocks that offensive line coaches covet. He has the traits to stay outside at tackle while also offering position flexibility at guard.

Rosengarten (#10/#69 (sweet)): Overall, Rosengarten’s pass protection won’t win any beauty pageants, but his feet stay active, and he trusts his handwork and eyes to execute his blocks. He projects as an immediate swing tackle for an offense with the potential to be a dependable starter if he continues to develop (stylistically similar to Garrett Bolles).

Fisher (#11/#73): Overall, Fisher is a big, athletic finesse blocker who flashes power but falls off too many blocks and needs to introduce more control to his play style before he is ready for NFL competition. He is a developmental prospect reminiscent of Nicholas Petit-Frere (2022 third-round pick).

Amegadjie (#12/#87): Overall, Amegadjie is a raw prospect who needs technical and strength work before he sees live NFL reps, but his physical ingredients and competitive drive are the foundational elements that pro coaches want to develop. He projects as a backup left tackle as a rookie who has all the tools to gradually develop into an NFL starter.

 

[tims4wins]

We don't have an OL / OT thread, but this from Reiss / Yates today:

Yates and fellow draft analysts said the top tier of prospects at the position is projected to be gone by New England's No. 34 pick at the top of the second round.

That would make it harder for New England to fill its need unless someone such as Arizona's Jordan Morgan, who some project more as a guard in the NFL, is viewed as a fit at that spot. Or Oklahoma's Tyler Guyton (a pre-draft visitor to Foxborough) unexpectedly is available.

 

[SMU_Sox]

I still have like 10-12 OL to go but these are the main guys minus maybe 1-2 other potential starters. Really a very good RT class but not as many true LTs.

I absolutely love Mims and Guyton and think Olu is a little overrated. Same with Fuaga. Same with Fautanu.

I see round 2 or 3 as a potential sweet spot for an OT. I could also see trading up for Guyton.

The people I do not think are LT options of the folks I feel are "good" bets to be a starter (so 6.5+): Latham, Fuaga, Fautanu, Morgan.

Kingsley is imo a total mess but if they trust the coaching to fix him... he's fine. I just feel like he is so far from being a starter it feels like a long shot.

EDIT: This is OT only. I didn't even cover the guys we know will be OGs or OCs. And yeah, a lot of the OTs in college are going to kick inside.

 

[Jake Peavy's Demons]

View attachment 81408

I still have like 10-12 OL to go but these are the main guys minus maybe 1-2 other potential starters. Really a very good RT class but not as many true LTs.

I absolutely love Mims and Guyton and think Olu is a little overrated. Same with Fuaga. Same with Fautanu.

I see round 2 or 3 as a potential sweet spot for an OT. I could also see trading up for Guyton.

The people I do not think are LT options of the folks I feel are "good" bets to be a starter (so 6.5+): Latham, Fuaga, Fautanu, Morgan.

Kingsley is imo a total mess but if they trust the coaching to fix him... he's fine. I just feel like he is so far from being a starter it feels like a long shot.

EDIT: This is OT only. I didn't even cover the guys we know will be OGs or OCs. And yeah, a lot of the OTs in college are going to kick inside.

Many thanks!!

What do the hyphens mean in the furthest column?

If Round 2 or 3 is the sweet spot, and LT is the target, it looks like Guyton or Paul would be a good grab for Round 2; Rosengarten, Fisher, & Amegadjie for Round 3.

I'd love to go WR at #34, & trade up for a LT again in the 2nd round. The drop-off in your rankings from Guyton to the 8-16 guys seems it would be worth it to help build a solid wall for Maye/Daniels/McCarthy/whomever is QB of the future.