Patriots’ Draft Strategy: Will They Target Ashton Jeanty or Travis Hunter?
With the initial phase of NFL free agency now behind us, attention has shifted toward the upcoming NFL Draft. The New England Patriots were highly active in free agency, leveraging their significant cap space to bring in key additions like tight end Austin Hooper, wide receiver Mack Hollins, and quarterback Josh Dobbs. These moves have provided valuable depth on offense, leading some to wonder if the team is finished making offensive upgrades.
However, NFL analyst Daniel Jeremiah believes the Patriots could still make a crucial move to support their potential new quarterback, Drake Maye. During an appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Jeremiah suggested that Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty could be the game-changing offensive weapon the Patriots need.
Jeremiah’s Argument for Ashton Jeanty
“If the Patriots don’t get Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter I think it should be Ashton Jeanty..
This first pick for the Patriots should be a pick that’s gonna help Drake Maye” ~ @MoveTheSticks #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/7wKe6sh4WO
— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) March 24, 2025
With the fourth overall pick in the draft, Jeremiah emphasized that the Patriots should focus on selecting the best available player who can directly aid their quarterback. He noted that top prospects like linebacker Abdul Carter and two-way standout Travis Hunter are unlikely to be available when New England is on the clock. Carter is expected to be selected by the Tennessee Titans or Cleveland Browns, while Hunter could be taken by the New York Giants at No. 3.
Given this scenario, Jeremiah believes the Patriots should consider Jeanty, who led the FBS in both total yards from scrimmage and rushing yards last season. His dominance in college earned him the Maxwell Award and Doak Walker Award as the nation’s top running back.
At 5-foot-8 and 211 pounds, Jeanty may not resemble a power back like Derrick Henry, but his versatility sets him apart. He has demonstrated the ability to contribute as both a runner and a receiver, catching 80 passes for 862 yards in his three seasons at Boise State. This dual-threat ability would provide the Patriots with a dynamic offensive playmaker.
Could the Patriots Still Land Travis Hunter?
Despite Jeanty’s impressive resume, some believe that Hunter remains the ideal target for New England. As a unique two-way player, Hunter excelled as both a wide receiver and cornerback at Colorado, recording 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns while also contributing 35 tackles, four interceptions, and a forced fumble on defense. His exceptional skill set has made him one of the most highly sought-after prospects in the draft.
While the Patriots are in a strong position at No. 4, there is significant competition for Hunter. The Titans, Browns, and Giants are all reportedly interested in the Heisman Trophy runner-up. Additionally, some analysts predict that the New York Jets might make a bold move to trade up from the No. 7 spot to No. 5 in an attempt to land Hunter.
According to NFL.com analyst Mike Band, the Jets could offer Hunter the opportunity to play both wide receiver and cornerback, which may be an enticing proposition. The team is in need of an additional weapon opposite Garrett Wilson on offense, as well as more depth at cornerback alongside Sauce Gardner. If they successfully trade up, it could make Hunter a key piece of their future.
Final Thoughts
The Patriots’ draft strategy will largely depend on how the first three selections unfold. If Hunter is available, he could be an ideal pick due to his rare skill set and ability to impact both sides of the ball. However, if he is already off the board, Jeanty presents a strong alternative as an immediate offensive playmaker for Drake Maye or any quarterback New England selects.
With the draft approaching, speculation continues to grow over how the Patriots will use their high pick. Their decision could shape the team’s offensive identity for years to come.