The 2025 NFL Draft is crucial for the New England Patriots as they continue their rebuild under new head coach Mike Vrabel and look to support young quarterback Drake Maye. Multiple expert mock drafts highlight the team’s focus on the trenches, receiver help, and depth across the roster. Based on the latest expert mocks and draft projections, here’s a comprehensive look at who the Patriots are projected to select in each round.
Round 1: No. 4 Overall
- Will Campbell, OT, LSU
Campbell is widely regarded as the top left tackle in the draft. The Patriots’ offensive line has been a glaring weakness, and Campbell’s addition would provide immediate protection for Drake Maye and stability on the blind side. He’s a safe, high-floor pick who could anchor the line for years.
Alternate projections:
- Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State (if Campbell is off the board or the Patriots pivot to defense).
Round 2: No. 38 Overall
- Kenneth Grant, DT, Michigan
Grant is a powerful, 331-pound run stopper who would pair well with free agent addition Milton Williams and provide insurance if Christian Barmore’s health remains a concern. He’s explosive and instinctive, with the ability to anchor the middle of the line.
Round 3: No. 69 Overall
- Kyle Williams, WR, Washington State
Williams is a dynamic route runner and deep threat, posting 70 catches for 1,198 yards and 14 touchdowns last season. He would give Maye a much-needed weapon on the outside, helping to stretch defenses and open up the offense. - Wyatt Milum, G, West Virginia (No. 77 overall, via trade or additional pick)
Milum, a versatile lineman who started at left tackle but projects as a guard in the NFL, brings strength, intelligence, and starting experience. He could compete for a starting job on the interior and provide valuable depth.
Day 3 Picks (Rounds 4-7): Depth and Development
- Drew Kendall, C, Boston College
A technically sound, high-floor center with NFL bloodlines, Kendall would be a stabilizing force in the middle of the line. He’s not flashy, but his polish and consistency make him an ideal Day 3 pick with starter potential. - Ty Robinson, DT, Nebraska
With Barmore’s health in question, Robinson offers size and power to reinforce the defensive front, ensuring depth and competition at a critical position. - Seth McLaughlin, C, Ohio State
A value pick who could develop into a long-term answer at center, especially with veteran David Andrews gone and newcomer Garrett Bradbury only a short-term solution. - Hollin Pierce, OT, Rutgers
Pierce provides tackle depth and the flexibility to play on either side, a necessity after the team’s acquisition of Kolton Miller and ongoing need for reliable backups. - Ryan Fitzgerald, K, Florida State
With Joey Slye departing and only John Parker Romo on the roster, Fitzgerald would compete for the starting kicker job, addressing a special-teams need.
Potential and Surprise Trades
1. Trading Down from No. 4 Overall
While the Patriots have explored trading down from the fourth pick, league sources suggest it’s unlikely unless a team falls in love with a specific prospect. The top of the draft is viewed as having only two elite talents—Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter—so if both are off the board, the market for No. 4 could be soft. However, coach Mike Vrabel has left the door open for a move, stating, “If somebody has an offer for us, I think we’d be willing to listen,” emphasizing the goal of landing a “premium” player.
2. Trading Up or Down in Later Rounds
The Patriots have shown a willingness to move around the board in recent years. If a targeted offensive tackle or receiver falls, they could package mid-round picks to move up. Conversely, if they miss on top targets, they may trade down to accumulate more selections and address multiple needs.
3. Surprise First-Round Pick
Vrabel has hinted at the possibility of a surprise first-round selection, potentially passing on an offensive tackle if he believes there’s sufficient depth at the position later in the draft. This could open the door for a pick at a less-expected spot, such as tight end or even running back, if the team deems the value too good to pass up. In one mock scenario, the Patriots trade down with the Saints, pick up an extra second-rounder, and select Penn State tight end Tyler Warren at No. 9—a move that would certainly raise eyebrows but fits Vrabel’s “best player available” philosophy.
Final Thoughts
The Patriots’ 2025 draft strategy appears flexible and opportunistic. They’re positioned to land a franchise-changing defender or offensive lineman at No. 4, but are open to moving down if the board doesn’t fall their way. The acquisition of Kolton Miller via trade would address their most urgent need, allowing the rest of the draft to focus on skill positions and depth. With Mike Vrabel at the helm, expect the unexpected—this draft could feature both foundational picks and headline-grabbing moves as New England charts a new course.