As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the New England Patriots are poised to make significant strides in rebuilding their roster. With a new coaching staff and several key needs to address, the Patriots are focusing on bolstering their offense and defense through both the draft and free agency.
Key Areas of Focus
The need for a powerful Wide Receiver has been a long-standing priority for the Patriots organization. Wide receiver Jayden Higgins from Iowa State would be a suitable selection if the Patriots choose to draft him. Higgins leads the offensive statistics among wide receivers with a ranking position of 80 and 79 percentile respectively. Veteran receiver DeAndre Hopkins would have an immediate impact unless he remains unavailable through free agency.
The Patriots should pursue defensive tackle Will Campbell from LSU to develop their offensive line immediately because he shows exceptional potential to improve their tackle position. Campbell represents an All-American consensus selection who received the special No. 7 LSU jersey marking his dual talents of leadership and playmaking abilities.
Improving their pass-rushing capabilities stands as a top priority for building this defense. The draft brings forth potential candidates including Abdul Carter out of Penn State and Mykel Williams coming from Georgia. Last season Carter generated 61 pass rushes along with 12 sacks at a rate of 18.5% pressure. Both pass-rushing efficiency and defensive against running plays are already demonstrated by Williams who maintains significant potential for development.
Potential Trades
- Cooper Kupp: The Patriots might explore trading for Cooper Kupp from the Los Angeles Rams. Kupp has two years remaining on his deal and could be available at a relatively low cost, similar to DeAndre Hopkins’ recent trade.
- Joey Bosa: Trading for Joey Bosa from the Los Angeles Chargers could provide a high-reward pass-rushing option. Bosa’s contract is substantial, but the Patriots have the cap space to absorb it, potentially offering a fifth-round pick in return.
- Trey Hendrickson: Acquiring Trey Hendrickson from the Cincinnati Bengals could add a consistent pass rusher. Hendrickson has posted double-digit sacks in three consecutive seasons and might be available for a fifth-round pick due to the Bengals’ cap constraints.
Draft Strategy
The New England Patriots possess a highly desirable selection as the fourth overall choice for the 2025 NFL Draft. By selecting the fourth overall they can bring in top prospect Will Campbell from LSU to enhance their offensive line immediately after the draft. At 6’6″ tall with 319 lbs of weight and a 32 5/8″ arm length Will Campbell falls short of the standard preference for NFL tackles. The short arm length has not slowed him down according to his combined results so much as his fast 4.98-second 40-yard dash combination with a 32″ vertical jump.
Trading Down
If the Patriots decide to trade down from the No. 4 pick, they could potentially accumulate more picks to address multiple needs. Teams like the Jacksonville Jaguars (No. 5) or the Las Vegas Raiders (No. 6) might be interested in moving up for specific players. A trade-down scenario could yield additional second or third-round picks, allowing the Patriots to target depth players.
For example, if they trade down to No. 5 with the Jaguars, they might still be able to draft a top prospect like Tetairoa McMillan if he falls or secure a defensive star like Mason Graham. McMillan is a standout receiver with 3,423 receiving yards and 26 touchdowns in his college career, showcasing his ability to dominate one-on-one matchups.
Staying at No. 4
If the Patriots keep their No. 4 pick, they have several top prospects to consider:
- Will Campbell, OT, LSU: An immediate starter at left tackle with Pro Bowl potential.
- Abdul Carter, Edge, Penn State: A highly athletic pass rusher who could be a game-changer on defense. Carter had 61 pressures and 12 sacks last season, with an impressive 18.5% pressure rate.
- Travis Hunter, CB/WR, Colorado: A versatile player with generational talent, though his position fit might be a consideration.
Targeting Depth in Later Rounds
The Patriots intend to boost their depth during the later rounds of the NFL draft. The Patriots may consider drafting wide receiver Tai Felton from Maryland together with defensive tackle Mason Brooks from Georgia Tech to develop their depth and strengthen their backup positions. The talents of Felton in route running help him separate from defenders which enhances his value to receiving formations.
Free Agency Considerations
WR DeAndre Hopkins represents a proven veteran receiver who would create an instant impact if he becomes available. Hopkins is forecasted to get a major pay increase over his current $13 million annual salary because his new contract will pay him about $15 million each year for one year.1 According to the betting odds at 5/1 the Kansas City Chiefs possess a 61.5% probability of losing Hopkins to the New England Patriots who are considered the most likely destination for him.
The Patriots could use Josh Sweat as an edge defender because he brings experience in passing defense to strengthen their defensive front. Sweat has an expected annual salary set between $18 million to $20 million for his upcoming contract agreement. The Washington Commanders view Sweat as their target based on his eight-sack performance last season but the Patriots may enter the competition for his services.
The veteran defensive end Khalil Mack becomes a free agency option due to his proven performance in the NFL. Mack has put himself up for bidding while the Chargers continue to attempt to keep him on their team. The Patriots may consider Khalil Mack although the Bears seem like his most likely destination unless they fail to obtain alternative free-agent targets.
Wide receiver Amari Cooper constitutes another established veteran option who brings immediate contribution potential to any team. Khalil Mack’s availability for signing a contract depends on his present standing with the Buffalo Bills.
The NFL free agency has made pass rusher Patrick Jones from the Vikings available to teams. The Patriots can secure his services at an affordable price while his experience gives him valuable depth on the team.
The Giants’ young pass rusher Azeez Ojulari brings expedition to the Patriots’ defensive line.
Conclusion
The Patriots face a pivotal offseason, with opportunities to address key needs through both the draft and free agency. By focusing on the offensive line, wide receiver corps, and pass rush, New England can set themselves up for success in the coming years. Whether through securing top draft prospects, signing proven veterans, or making strategic trades, the Patriots are poised to make significant strides in rebuilding their roster.