The Patriots’ Tough Draft Decision
The New England Patriots are facing a significant challenge this spring as they prepare for the NFL Draft. Every Patriots fan knows that a single loss in their final regular-season game against the Buffalo Bills could have secured them the number-one pick. Instead, rookie quarterback Joe Milton delivered a stellar performance, pushing the Patriots to a respectable fourth overall pick. While this is certainly a position of strength, it leaves the team with some tough choices to make. With no pressing need for a quarterback, the Patriots are likely to consider three top prospects: Penn State edge-rusher Abdul Carter, Colorado wide receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter, and LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell.
The Top Prospects in Consideration
The three prospects in question each bring unique strengths and potential to the table. Abdul Carter, widely regarded as the consensus number-one prospect in the draft, is a dominant force on the edge. However, if he’s selected before the Patriots’ turn, they’ll need to weigh their options carefully. Travis Hunter, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2024, is a rare dual-threat player, excelling both as a wide receiver and cornerback. His versatility and superstar status make him an intriguing choice. On the other hand, Will Campbell offers a more immediate and safer upgrade to the Patriots’ struggling offensive line. Each player presents a different path for the team, and the decision will come down to a mix of need, potential, and the Patriots’ long-term strategy.
Kyle Crabbs’ Prediction
Kyle Crabbs, a respected analyst from The 33rd Team, recently shared his thoughts on the Patriots’ draft strategy in a 2025 mock draft. Crabbs believes that the Patriots are likely to take a gamble on Travis Hunter’s upside, selecting him with the fourth pick. "New England could very easily take the offensive line option here with Will Campbell, and no one would bat an eye," Crabbs wrote. However, the analyst argues that the team’s need for upgraded weapons for quarterback Drake Maye, coupled with the need for more talent at cornerback, makes Hunter a compelling choice. Crabbs suggests that Hunter’s potential to play both positions at a high level presents a long-term, double-dip opportunity that the Patriots might find too good to pass up. This strategy aligns with the Patriots’ history of drafting for the future, rather than just addressing immediate needs.
Travis Hunter: The Versatile Superstar
Travis Hunter is a 21-year-old phenomenon who has already made waves in college football. In his 2024 season at Colorado, Hunter amassed 1,258 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, showcasing his dynamic ability as a wide receiver. On the defensive side of the ball, he recorded 35 tackles, four interceptions, 11 passes defended, and a forced fumble. His dual-threat status makes him a rare find, and if he can maintain this level of performance at the NFL level, he could become a game-changer. The risk lies in whether Hunter can handle the physical and mental demands of playing both positions in the more intense and longer NFL season. However, the Patriots have a reputation for developing players, and they might see Hunter as a perfect candidate for their developmental system.
The Safe Bet: Will Campbell
While Hunter represents a high-risk, high-reward option, Will Campbell embodies the safer, more immediate upgrade. Campbell, an LSU offensive tackle, is known for his solid technique and reliability. The Patriots’ offensive line has been a weak point in recent seasons, and Campbell could provide the stability and protection needed for the team’s quarterbacks. His experience and consistent performance make him a reliable choice, and his presence could improve the team’s overall offensive efficiency. Campbell’s potential to step in and contribute from day one makes him a highly attractive option for the Patriots, especially if they are looking to build a more balanced team in the short term.
Conclusion: Balancing Risk and Reward
The Patriots’ decision at the fourth pick will be a critical one, reflecting their approach to team building and their long-term vision. While Will Campbell offers a more immediate and safer solution to their offensive line woes, Travis Hunter presents a unique opportunity to bolster both their passing game and defensive backfield. The Patriots have a history of taking calculated risks, and the allure of a dual-threat superstar like Hunter might be too tempting to resist. Ultimately, the choice will come down to a balance between short-term needs and the potential for long-term success. Both options have their merits, and fans will be eagerly watching to see which direction the team takes in this crucial draft.
