Adam Schefter reveals 2 teams showing the most interest in the Patriots' No. 3 pick
The NY Giants will have a crucial decision to make on Thursday night in the first round of the NFL Draft, which could ultimately change the future of their franchise. Big Blue has the No. 6 overall pick, which they could use to fill several positional needs, such as a wide receiver or even quarterback. However, the G-Men have also been rumored to have interest in moving up to No. 3, which the New England Patriots occupy.
Well, ESPN's Adam Schefter confirmed this rumor on Monday on the Pat McAfee Show, stating that the Minnesota Vikings and New York Giants are most interested in the New England Patriots' pick. Still, it would take a lot to get a deal done between both parties. If the G-Men acquire the No. 3 pick, you can imagine that general manager Joe Schoen will offer a haul back to New England. Could this happen on draft night?
The Giants have shown interest in quarterbacks J.J. McCarthy and Drake Maye. Maye has been projected to be the No. 3 pick in multiple mocks to the Patriots, who are also looking for a new starter after trading Mac Jones to Jacksonville this offseason. Plenty of Giants fans are hoping Schoen brings in a star WR at No. 6 overall for Daniel Jones, but might he prioritize a new QB instead?
Should the NY Giants trade up to No. 3 and draft Drake Maye?
The Giants improved their offensive line this offseason with the additions of Jon Runyan Jr. and Jermaine Eluemunor. They also brought in former Las Vegas Raiders offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo. So, there is no excuse for whoever is under center for the G-Men next season not to have the necessary protection to make plays and drive down the field.
Now, it will come down to whether Schoen adds any more weapons on offense or if they add a promising quarterback who can utilize the Giants' rostered targets such as Darius Slayton, Wan'Dale Robinson, Isaiah Hodgins, Darren Waller (if he doesn't retire), and deep threat Jalin Hyatt. If the Giants stay at No. 6, they could draft LSU wideout Malik Nabers, who would significantly improve Big Blue's WRs room.
Still, Schoen may be tempted to strengthen the QB position first with the uncertainty of Jones' health and performance in 2024. They will also have the opportunity to acquire a player like Maye, who makes a lot of sense for the G-Men to pursue at No. 3.
The North Carolina quarterback may have the best arm strength out of all the signal-callers in this year's class. He also displays great speed and accuracy when throwing downfield thanks to his size and excellent accuracy. Maye showcased his arm at UNC's Pro Day last month in front of several NFL scouts and general managers.
In 2023, the signal-caller threw for 3,608 yards, 24 touchdowns, and nine interceptions, earning a 79.3 QBR, the 15th-best quarterback rating in college football last season. Maye's performance led the Tar Heels to an 8-5 record, finishing sixth in the ACC. With Jayden Daniels potentially going No. 2 to Washington, Maye could be there for the taking at No. 3. Soon enough, we'll find out if Schoen decides to be aggressive in trading up and landing the UNC QB at that spot.