In a move aimed at rebuilding their roster, the New England Patriots, under the ownership of Robert Kraft for three decades, are contemplating trading down in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. The Patriots, coming off one of their worst seasons in Kraft's tenure with a 4-13 record at the bottom of the AFC East, are eager to make significant changes to their team.

According to The Athletic's Diana Russini, in an interview on the Patriots Talk Podcast with Tom Curran, the Patriots may adopt the "Texans approach" and trade down to acquire more draft picks. Russini drew a comparison to the Houston Texans, who have successfully traded down in the past to secure high-impact players and build a strong foundation for their team.

The Patriots' front office, while acknowledging the importance of drafting a franchise quarterback, is also open to exploring potential deals that come their way. Head coach Jerod Mayo and de facto GM Eliot Wolf have both expressed interest in the "Texans approach," indicating that the team is willing to consider all options.

Russini revealed that several teams have publicly expressed their intention to move up in the draft and acquire a quarterback, which could make them potential suitors for the Patriots' No. 3 overall pick. One team that has been linked to a possible trade is the Minnesota Vikings. Despite signing Sam Darnold to a one-year contract, the Vikings are still searching for a long-term solution at quarterback. By packaging their No. 11 pick with the acquired No. 23 pick from the Texans, along with a 2025 first-rounder, the Vikings could offer a compelling trade package.

Another team that could be in pursuit of the Patriots' top pick is the Denver Broncos. Head coach Sean Payton has expressed that a potential trade-up is realistic, as the Broncos currently hold the No. 12 overall pick. Their target is reportedly Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, whose draft stock has been rising steadily. To secure McCarthy, the Broncos may offer the Patriots their 2024 No. 11 pick, a 2025 first-rounder, and a 2026 first-rounder.

The Las Vegas Raiders, under the helm of head coach Antonio Pierce, are also exploring a trade-up from their No. 13 pick to land an elite quarterback. While lacking the necessary draft capital to move up to the No. 3 spot, the Raiders could potentially compensate by offering players in the deal. The price, though hefty, may align with the Raiders' reputation for bold moves.

The Patriots, with their signing of quarterback Jacoby Brissett, have slightly alleviated their immediate need for a signal-caller. By trading down in the draft, they would be able to accumulate additional picks and address various other areas of concern on their roster.

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, New England finds itself in a pivotal position. With multiple teams displaying interest in trading up, the Patriots have the opportunity to secure valuable assets while still addressing their pressing needs. Only time will tell which team will be on the other end of the line when the Patriots make their decision.