What Adam Schefter’s Major NFL Draft Update Means For Patriots

The Patriots’ options in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft will be determined by how the first three picks in Green Bay shake out.

Well, we might now know how one of those coveted selections will be used.

On the latest episode of his self-titled podcast, ESPN’s Adam Schefter noted how he would be “really surprised” if the Titans didn’t select Cam Ward first overall. In fact, Schefter believes Ward is “destined” to land in Tennessee, where the organization reportedly hasn’t seriously entertained trade offers for the top pick.

So, what does that mean for the Patriots?

If Ward punches a ticket to Nashville, as Schefter expects, New England will take one step closer to having the opportunity to select one of the two best non-QBs in the class. If fellow signal-caller Sheduer Sanders is taken by either the Cleveland Browns or the New York Giants, who both need QB help, Travis Hunter and/or Abdul Carter will be available to the Patriots at No. 4. Both Hunter and Carter have been attached to New England in mock drafts with the actual event a little over a month away.

That said, Sanders — or any other quarterback prospect — is not guaranteed to be selected within the top three alongside Ward. If Sanders goes unclaimed over that stretch, there’s a good chance Hunter and Carter will represent the second- and third-overall picks in either order. According to one Patriots insider, New England “would love” to trade back if neither Hunter nor Carter are available at No. 4. But if a trade opportunity doesn’t arise, the Patriots could draft for need and select someone like LSU offensive lineman Will Campbell.

Yes, we know all of those permutations can give you a headache. But the bottom line is, one way or another, New England will make a franchise-altering decision after it goes on the clock 24.