In a last-minute twist leading up to the NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have sparked speculation with their openness to trading the third overall pick. De facto general manager Eliot Wolf and head coach Jerod Mayo have publicly expressed their willingness to entertain offers for the coveted draft position.

According to reports, it may require more than three first-round picks for a deal to be struck, but the Patriots are reportedly open to considering offers once they are on the clock on draft night. This unexpected move demonstrates the team's eagerness to explore all available options to strengthen their roster.

Interestingly, ESPN's Mike Reiss has revealed that the Patriots have also been exploring the possibility of utilizing their Day 2 picks to trade into the first round, excluding the No. 3 pick. This strategy suggests the team's desire to make bold and aggressive moves to secure valuable talent.

Renowned NFL media personality Peter Schrager has added fuel to the fire with his latest mock draft, which features multiple trades involving the Patriots. In Schrager's scenario, the Kansas City Chiefs trade with the Los Angeles Rams, who then trade with the Patriots to move out of the first round entirely. As a result, New England secures quarterback Drake Maye at No. 3 and receiver Xavier Legette at No. 32.

Discussing his mock draft, Schrager noted, "The Rams, perhaps too busy enjoying their Draft House in Hermosa Beach, trade back again, dropping out of the first round entirely. The Patriots package their second- and third-round picks (Nos. 34 and 68) to move back into Round 1 – and ahead of the Panthers (No. 33) – to grab a receiver and the accompanying fifth-year option on his rookie contract. L.A. enters Day 2 with 13 total picks after Thursday night's deals."

While trading away assets may seem risky, the Patriots' strategic moves in Schrager's mock draft address their most pressing offensive needs. Adding Maye and Legette in the first round immediately bolsters their roster. This leaves New England with the option to either further build depth in the draft or potentially acquire additional Day 2 or Day 3 picks.

As the NFL Draft approaches, all eyes will be on the New England Patriots to see how they navigate their draft strategy. With their willingness to trade the third overall pick and explore alternative trade scenarios, it is clear that they are determined to make moves that will enhance their chances of success in the upcoming season.