The New England Patriots traded Brandin Cooks to the Rams for the 23rd overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Is a quarterback coming in the first round?
For Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots, the value of draft picks is never understated. The team has made countless moves over the years by either selling or acquiring draft picks. Now, with two picks in the first round, the Pat’s find themselves in much more favorable position.
It’s uncertain what New England will do with their first-round draft choices, as the team has a lot of positions to address. However, with Tom Brady entering his 19th season, the Patriots must consider drafting his successor.
The 2018 NFL Draft board is loaded with quarterback talent. It’s unlikely any of the top five quarterback prospects would fall to the Patriots, but trading once again is always a possibility for Belichick.
For those trying to predict what the Patriots will do this month with their double 1’s and double 2’s, consider this: New England traded six of its seven picks during last year’s draft.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) April 4, 2018
There would be plenty of willing suitors if New England wanted to sneak into the top 10. Trading with the New York Giants at No. 2 or the Clevland Browns at No. 4 are viable options. However, if both those teams decide to stay put, Belichick is going to have to get creative if he has his eyes set on a top quarterback.
While the Patriots have expressed interest in many of the draft’s top quarterback prospects, it’s unclear if trading down for one player would be worth the risk. But one name that keeps resurfacing in New England is Baker Mayfield, the polarizing Heisman Trophy winner from Oklahoma.
The Patriots reportedly have an "affinity" for Baker Mayfield, one of the top QBs in this year's draft class. https://t.co/11dAZKRuUS pic.twitter.com/S82qLsuJwP
— NESN (@NESN) April 5, 2018
In order to grab Mayfield, New England would have to at least get inside the top 15. This may involve making a deal with division rival, Miami Dolphins at No. 11. Again, while it’s unlikely, Belichick will go to great lengths to bring in a player that could fit his system.
If the Patriots decide to keep their draft picks, they have other options at quarterback. Louisville’s Lamar Jackson is expected to hang around until the late first round. If the Pat’s wanted to draft one of the most athletic quarterbacks in recent memory, Jackson is their man.
Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: 10 Big trades create chaos
Other quarterbacks like Oklahoma State’s Mason Rudolph or Washington State’s Luke Falk could make sense. They are both well-suited for Josh McDaniel’s system and could thrive under Belichick. Whatever New England decides to do, though, draft day should be very interesting for the organization.