In an exciting turn of events, top NFL draft experts Daniel Jeremiah and Mel Kiper have released their post-free agency mock drafts, offering insights into the potential quarterback options for the New England Patriots with the No. 3 pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.

Both Jeremiah and Kiper predict that the Patriots will select a quarterback with their high draft position. Jeremiah suggests that Jayden Daniels will be the ideal pick for New England, while Kiper leans toward Drake Maye as their potential choice. Interestingly, between the two mock drafts, LSU's quarterback is also mentioned as a possibility for the Patriots, with Maye potentially joining the team if he falls in the draft.

Despite the enticing options available, the Patriots have the opportunity to trade the No. 3 pick, with Jeremiah strongly believing they will receive numerous trade offers. One team that could be a strong candidate is the Minnesota Vikings due to their resources and possible connection to Maye.

Jeremiah and Kiper have taken bold approaches in their mock drafts, including the selection of a fifth quarterback in the first round. Kiper has Bo Nix going to the Denver Broncos at No. 12, while Jeremiah envisions Michael Penix Jr. being picked by the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 13. This further adds to the intrigue surrounding the quarterback position in this year's draft, especially with four quarterbacks expected to go in the top 10 picks.

If Nix or Penix do end up being chosen in the first round, it could limit the Patriots' options for later rounds. Nevertheless, prospects like Joe Milton III and Spencer Rattler remain intriguing options, potentially offering the Patriots upside if they choose to trade back and take a gamble on a late-round quarterback.

However, the selection of a franchise quarterback should be the Patriots' primary focus. While there are concerns about Maye needing time to adjust to the NFL, he still possesses the potential to become a reliable leader for the team. Multiple draft analysts view Daniels as the second-best quarterback in the class after Caleb Williams, adding further weight to the importance of the Patriots' decision.

The Patriots' underwhelming performance in the first week of free agency has raised concerns about the team's ability to support a rookie quarterback. It is crucial for New England to avoid repeating the mistakes made during Mac Jones' tenure, where insufficient support hindered his progress. Trading back in the draft to acquire more assets could enable the Patriots to build a more competent roster overall.

Nonetheless, the draft represents an opportunity for the Patriots to rebuild their offense from scratch, particularly if it proves as loaded with talented pass-catchers as projected. While relying solely on the draft to rectify the team's shortcomings during free agency may be a risky proposition, the chance to select a franchise quarterback does not come around often. Waiting to see who falls to them between Maye and Daniels could be a prudent strategy for the Patriots.

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, the Patriots find themselves at a crossroads with the No. 3 pick. With multiple quarterback options available and a potential QB frenzy predicted by draft experts, New England must carefully consider their choices to secure a promising future for the franchise.