NFL Draft: The Patriots’ Decision to Not Commit to Taking a Quarterback with Their Top Pick Leaves the Future of Their Franchise in Limbo

The New England Patriots hold the third overall pick in next week’s NFL Draft, which means they have a top-rated quarterback available for selection. However, scouting director and de-facto general manager Eliot Wolf has not committed to taking a quarterback with the team’s first pick. During a pre-draft press conference, Wolf mentioned that they are open to anything, including moving up, moving down, and being open for business in every round. He emphasized that the team is focused on filling holes in the draft and is a draft and develop team.

Although Wolf mentioned during the NFL Combine in February that they might not need to take a quarterback in the first round, he feels confident that the current roster can support a rookie signal caller if they choose to leave the draft with one. The team has a solid offensive line, key players returning, and a strong system in place to develop a rookie quarterback, according to Wolf.

With discussions ongoing with other teams, Wolf shared that nothing substantial has led him to want to strike a deal so far. The Patriots are looking for their next “quarterback of the future” after trading Mac Jones to the Jacksonville Jaguars. The team currently has Jacoby Brissett, Bailey Zappe, and Nathan Rourke under contract, leaving open the question of who their pick might be in the upcoming draft. Patriots fans will have to wait one more week to find out who their team selects.