With the NFL Draft approaching in under two weeks, the New England Patriots are a key team to watch. Holding a top-five pick, they could target stars like Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter, but Jacob Infante of PFSN predicts they’ll select LSU offensive tackle Will Campbell in the first round to bolster protection for their quarterback, Drake Maye.
Infante notes, “The Patriots seem set with Drake Maye at quarterback. While they have options at No. 4, prioritizing protection for their new QB would be a smart move.” Campbell, a 2024 All-American, allowed only four sacks and 13 hits during his LSU career, per Pro Football Focus.
The Patriots also need a starting wide receiver, and Infante projects them drafting Iowa State’s Jayden Higgins in the second round. “Adding a receiver early makes sense for the Patriots’ rebuild around Maye,” Infante writes. “Higgins, a big-bodied, reliable target, excels at contested catches.”
Higgins shone in 2024 with 87 receptions, nearly 1,200 yards, and nine touchdowns. His 6-foot-4 frame suits him for 50-50 balls, and he can turn short catches into big gains. Pairing him with Campbell would be an ideal draft outcome for New England.
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