As the 2024 NFL draft approaches, the New England Patriots are facing a pivotal decision with their No. 3 pick. With several paths available, beat writer and ESPN insider Mike Reiss shared some insider information on the Patriots' most likely plan for the upcoming draft.

According to Reiss, the prevailing scenario, as per sources, suggests that the Patriots will stay put at No. 3 and select one of three talented quarterbacks. The potential prospects include LSU's Jayden Daniels, North Carolina's Drake Maye, or Michigan's J.J. McCarthy.

The Patriots' need for a franchise quarterback is evident, especially after trading away their 2021 first-round pick, Mac Jones. The team only made a modest addition to their quarterback room in free agency, signing Jacoby Brissett to a one-year contract. While Bailey Zappe is still with the team, his performances last season were not convincing enough to believe he can be a long-term starter in the NFL.

The 2024 draft offers several potential players who fit the Patriots' desired mold. Daniels, who won the Heisman Trophy at LSU last season, and Maye, a highly regarded signal-caller prospect, have long been on New England's radar. Additionally, McCarthy's stock has risen rapidly throughout the draft process, making him a viable option for the Patriots.

Although there may be a temptation to trade down and acquire more draft picks to address other areas of need, staying put and selecting a quarterback appears to be the likeliest scenario at this point. The Patriots' offense is in dire need of talent infusion, and their defense features a few aging cornerstones.

By selecting a quarterback with their No. 3 pick, the Patriots are ensuring that they secure a potential franchise cornerstone for the future. Whether it's Maye, Daniels, or McCarthy, the Patriots should come out of the 2024 draft with a promising new signal-caller.

The draft is deep with talent, presenting an opportunity for the Patriots to strengthen their roster across the board. Nevertheless, prioritizing a quarterback at this position in the draft seems like the best course of action for New England.

As the countdown to the draft continues, all eyes will be on the Patriots to see which path they ultimately choose. With their No. 3 pick, they hold the power to shape their future and potentially find the missing piece to their quarterback puzzle.