The New England Patriots face a pivotal moment with their No. 4 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. With top prospects like Colorado's dual-threat Travis Hunter and LSU's offensive tackle Will Campbell in the mix, the Patriots have various options to consider.
However, the Patriots' draft strategy extends beyond just the No. 4 pick. They hold a total of four picks within the top 80 (No. 4, No. 38, No. 69, and No. 77), allowing them to acquire significant talent in the second and third rounds. This makes the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis a crucial event for head coach Mike Vrabel and his staff as they evaluate a wide range of prospects beyond the well-known names.
Our Patriots Insider, Phil Perry, will be on the ground in Indianapolis, highlighting seven players outside of the Hunters and Campbells who could catch New England's attention. These prospects were discussed in detail on the latest episode of the Next Pats Podcast.
One intriguing candidate for the Patriots' No. 4 pick is Mykel Williams from Georgia. According to Perry, industry insiders believe that if they were in New England's shoes, Williams would be a strong consideration. His unique physical traits and athletic abilities make him comparable to Travon Walker, yet some argue Williams is even more instinctive and versatile. At just 20 years old, Williams has room to grow, making him a compelling option for the Patriots.
Several other prospects are garnering attention as potential second or third-round selections for the Patriots:
Ozzy Trapilo, OT, Boston CollegeWorking with former Patriots offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia, Ozzy Trapilo is on the radar. With connections to Patriots staff and a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, his performance at the Combine could determine if he's an early Day 2 pick.
Anthony Belton, OT, NC StateKnown for his size and strength, Anthony Belton needs to demonstrate athleticism and flexibility to fit into the Patriots' future plans. His performance in the Senior Bowl has already shown promise.
Aireontae Ersery, OT, MinnesotaMock drafts have previously linked Aireontae Ersery to the Patriots in the second round. His ability to handle Combine drills will be critical in assessing his potential as a reliable tackle.
Isaiah Bond, WR, TexasAs a state champion sprinter, Isaiah Bond offers the speed the Patriots need to enhance their offense. His potential as a second-round pick could be realized, depending on his Combine performance.
Luther Burden III, WR, MissouriLikely a first-round pick, Luther Burden III is celebrated for his dynamic play after the catch. Comparisons to players like Deebo Samuel highlight his ability to make plays with the ball in his hands.
Tre Harris, WR, Ole MissWith a bigger frame and a competitive edge, Tre Harris could pique the Patriots' interest. While his speed may not be his strongest trait, his intelligence and competitiveness make him a valuable asset.
As the Patriots prepare for the 2025 NFL Draft, the NFL Scouting Combine will be a key opportunity for head coach Mike Vrabel and his staff to gather insights and make informed decisions about their picks.