It's an exciting week for the entire NFL, but New England Patriots fans are hoping for fireworks.
The Patriots have the number four draft pick, and because they already have a presumed franchise quarterback in Drake Maye, the entire draft feels full of possibility. New England could target any position, and they could also be involved in lots of trade discussions.
One need that the Patriots almost definitely have to address during the draft is left tackle, a position that plagued New England throughout the 2024 season and contributed to Maye being besieged.
While there are college prospects that could be under consideration with the fourth selection, one football writer sees the Patriots instead acquiring an established NFL star at the position in a blockbuster trade.
On Friday, Patriots Wire's Jordy McElroy predicted that New England would land Las Vegas Raiders left tackle Kolton Miller during the draft in exchange for a third-round selection (number 77 overall).
"This move makes a lot of sense for New England. Miller has reportedly skipped out on voluntary workouts, and the Raiders have still yet to engage in negotiations, despite this being his contract year," McElroy wrote.
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"It's surprising considering Miller is one of the best left tackles in the NFL. The Patriots should pick up the phone and inquire about a potential trade to solidify their blindside protection for Drake Maye."
Miller's three-year, $54 million rookie extension expires at the end of the 2025 season, so the Patriots would likely have to commit themselves to the 29-year-old for a few more years. And it's worth noting that his 5.1 percent blown block rate last season was the highest of his seven-year career.
Still, Miller has been a stud throughout his career, and he could be a stud in New England as well. If he's up for sale, especially for a third-rounder, most Patriots fans would endorse pulling the trigger.
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