There’s a chance arguably the most talented player in the entire 2025 NFL Draft class falls into the Patriots’ lap.
ESPN’s Jordan Reid projected that scenario in his new two-round mock draft released Tuesday. Thanks to the top two quarterbacks (Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders) going off the board within the first three picks, the Patriots landed dual-threat star Travis Hunter at fourth overall in Reid’s mock.
“The Patriots have a lot of needs, with offensive tackle and receiver being the biggest,” Reid wrote. “They can address some of those issues using their $129.6 million in cap space in free agency (the most in the league, per Roster Management System), then drafting the best player on the board. That would be Hunter. His two-way ability would pair well opposite Christian Gonzalez at cornerback and give Drake Maye a talented option out wide.”
Taking Hunter with its top pick would fall in line with New England’s reported strategy for the 2025 draft. After drafting for need in the early rounds last year, the Patriots reportedly will take a “best player available” approach into the late-April event.
As for New England’s second pick, Reid sees Mike Vrabel and company targeting the trenches by taking Oregon offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. at No. 38.
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“After taking the best overall prospect in Round 1, the Patriots can address their other pressing need in the second round,” Reid wrote. “Because of his balance, increased strength and upside, Conerly has the potential to be a plug-and-play starter at right or left tackle.”
Of course, New England’s draft outlook could change if the franchise hits the ground running upon the start of NFL free agency. And after so many misses last offseason, the Patriots appear motivated to use their wealth of cap space to make big splashes.