The New England Patriots are ushering in a new era for the 2024 season, led by their recently appointed head coach, Jerod Mayo.
Mayo, a former player for the team from 2008 to 2015 and the previous linebackers coach, has taken the reins from the legendary coach Bill Belichick.
Belichick, an icon who helmed the franchise for 24 seasons, concluded his tenure after the 2023 campaign, a season marked by the team's poorest performance in three decades, finishing with a 4-13 record.
As the Patriots navigate this pivotal offseason, there is a sense of optimism for a potential rebuild. Armed with the third overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft and boasting the third-highest salary cap space in the league, approximately $66 million, they have ample resources.
The primary focus for the Patriots lies in addressing their need for a franchise quarterback, a quest that has persisted since the departure of Tom Brady after the 2019 season.
With a keen eye on the highly talented draft class, the team strongly considers utilizing their third overall pick to secure a quarterback. Regardless of their choice, the Patriots are poised to acquire an exceptional talent, given their favorable draft position.
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3 quarterbacks New England Patriots must target to return to playoffs
1. Drake Maye
North Carolina Tar Heels quarterback Drake Maye is anticipated to be among the top four picks in the upcoming draft, sharing the spotlight with the consensus first overall pick, USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams, as well as Ohio State wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr., and LSU quarterback and reigning Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels.
Maye, the starting quarterback for the Tar Heels over the past two seasons, enjoyed a highly accomplished 2022 campaign. He secured accolades such as ACC Player of the Year, ACC Offensive Player of the Year, ACC Rookie of the Year, and First-team All-ACC.
This recognition followed a remarkable season where he completed 66.2 percent of his passes for 4,321 yards, throwing 38 touchdowns and seven interceptions. Additionally, he showcased his versatility by rushing 184 times for 698 yards and contributing seven touchdowns on the ground.
2. Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels, the reigning Heisman Trophy holder, enjoyed a tremendously successful 2023 season with the LSU Tigers.
The 23-year-old demonstrated accuracy, completing 72.2 percent of his passing attempts for a total of 3,812 yards, which included an impressive 40 touchdowns and a minimal four interceptions.
Daniels showcased his dual-threat capabilities by contributing significantly on the ground, amassing 1,134 rushing yards and scoring 10 touchdowns.
Aside from the Heisman, Daniels claimed several more accolades, including the Walter Camp Award, AP College Football Player of the Year, Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, Davey O'Brien Award, Manning Award, and several others.
3. Kirk Cousins
The Patriots could consider veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins of the Minnesota Vikings for their backup quarterback spot. Cousins, who missed the entire 2023 season due to a torn Achilles tear, is now recovering.
Currently, Cousins and the Vikings have not agreed on a new contract extension, making the four-time Pro Bowl selection a likely free agent.
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