Exploring quarterback prospects for the New England Patriots in the 2024 NFL Draft (1 selection for first 3 rounds)

Let’s end that Drake Maye vs Caleb Williams debate right there.  Even if the Patriots end up with No. 1 overall, they should go with Maye who would be the better option for the Patriots offensive playbook.

Williams is the generational talent, but Maye is the prototype quarterback who would be a nice building block to start the offensive rebuild in New England.  Big and athletic, Maye is an instinctive playmaker who has shown the ability to really drive the ball in tight spots.  Along with his above average speed for a quarterback, the North Carolina product would give the Patriots the perfect combination of a pocket passer and a quarterback with the mobility to manipulate the pocket or take off with his legs.

Although Williams has that same capability, it is the mental makeup of both players that could lead the Patriots to select Maye over Williams if they end up with the top pick or whoever has the top pick goes with another generational talent like Marvin Harrison Jr. 

While either player would have to deal with the pressure of the Boston media and being that next guy following the two decades of Tom Brady will require a toughness to handle the criticism when things aren’t going right as well as monetize the high praise when things are going great on the field.  The regression of Mac Jones is exactly what can happen to a young quarterback when criticism is high.  Some of Williams’ public meltdowns put into question whether he can handle things not going well.