The New England Patriots made significant moves in the 2024 NFL Draft to address their biggest needs, selecting a quarterback, wide receiver, and left tackle in the first three rounds. However, uncertainties still loom over the roster as the team heads into OTAs later this month.

The Patriots' director of scouting, Eliot Wolf, and head coach, Jerod Mayo, were well aware of the team's primary requirements heading into the draft. Quarterback, wide receiver, and left tackle were unanimously agreed upon as crucial positions to address. As the draft unfolded, the Patriots were able to secure their targets in Drake Maye, Ja'Lynn Polk, and Caedan Wallace respectively.

Drake Maye was a clear choice at quarterback, while Ja'Lynn Polk and Javon Baker bolstered the wide receiver corps. Polk's highly regarded skills and Baker's potential make them valuable additions to the team's offense. The Patriots' receiving group now boasts depth with a total of 11 players.

However, despite fulfilling their top needs, questions remain. The Patriots missed out on landing a top left tackle prospect in the draft, leaving uncertainty on the left side of the offensive line. Caedan Wallace, though a promising NFL tackle prospect, has primarily played on the right side during his college career.

The team's offensive evolution will depend on the development of Maye in tandem with Polk and Baker. The rookie class brings excitement and potential to a Patriots offense that was lacking juice just a week ago. The arrival of Joe Milton's cannon arm adds an element of excitement to upcoming OTAs and training camp.

Another area of concern for the Patriots is the left tackle position. Chuks Okorafor, a one-year signee, is currently projected to start on the left side, but questions persist about his ability to smoothly transition from right tackle. Calvin Anderson, who missed most of the previous season due to illness, and developmental player Tyrone Wheatley Jr. also present potential options at left tackle.

The competition inside at the guard positions is expected to be intense, with multiple drafted players from last year and a new addition in Layden Robinson. The offensive line's starting five remains uncertain, but the Patriots hope that the competition will bring out the best in their young players and lead to a solid lineup.

On the defensive side, the Patriots selected cornerback Marcellas Dial from South Carolina. With Christian Gonzalez and Jonathan Jones as high-level starters, the team needs a third rotational option for the outside cornerback position. Dial possesses the versatility to fulfill that role, but the slot position is still up for grabs after the departure of Myles Bryant.

The Patriots' defense appears well-set with the return of key players like Christian Barmore, Matthew Judon, and Christian Gonzalez. However, concerns about pass rush depth remain, especially with Judon and Joshua Uche slated for free agency in 2025. The team will be closely watching emerging players like Isaiah Bolden, Alex Austin, Shaun Wade, and Marco Wilson to secure significant roles on defense.

As the Patriots prepare for the upcoming OTAs, the roster questions that remain will undoubtedly be under scrutiny. The team's draft picks have brought excitement and potential, but how they ultimately contribute to the Patriots' success in the 2024 season is yet to be seen.