Successful Day 3 selections can be crucial in fielding a dominant football team. Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy and Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco were selected in Rounds 4-7 and proved to be difference-makers on the field.
The New England Patriots have five Day 3 picks for the 2024 draft. Here are three players they should consider.
McCaffrey had an impressive senior season with Rice. He gathered 992 yards and 13 touchdowns receiving during the regular season and played well in front of NFL scouts at the Reese's Senior Bowl in February.
That's the 10th TD of the season for @mccaffrey_luke, and 16th of his career! pic.twitter.com/RCeIPSKrvn
— Rice Football (@RiceFootball) November 12, 2023
Despite having plenty of depth at the position, there is no standout receiver currently on the Patriots.
McCaffrey would be a cheap, solid addition with the potential to transform the offense.
In a mock draft done by NFL.com, McCaffrey was selected in the third round, making him a fringe Day 3 option. If they want to add McCaffrey, the Patriots will either need to be aggressive in their pursuit of him during Day 3 or hope he falls to the fourth round or later.
Although the Patriots' starting cornerback rotation of Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones and Marcus Jones is one of the best in the NFL, New England needs someone with Jackson's length (6-foot-3) to match against taller receivers.
ORE 10, HAW 0 (Q1 | 12:24)@LewisCamden is good from 43 yard to stretch the lead.
— Oregon Football (@oregonfootball) September 17, 2023
Second offensive possession set up by a Khyree Jackson INT#GoDucks
@Pac12Network pic.twitter.com/jHZtYViEMI
In 2023 with Oregon, Jackson recorded 25 solo tackles and three interceptions. He features impressive skills in coverage, which has him projected as an early Day 3 pick.
David Andrews, New England's starting center, is 31 years old and in the final year of his contract. The Patriots should plan for the future by drafting Bortolini.
Described as one of Wisconsin's "most versatile linemen," Bortolini would be an important piece on the Patriots offensive line, which needs depth.
He could work primarily as a center and play reduced roles at both guard spots. A projected mid-Day 3 pick, Bortolini would be a fun add with the capacity to start a few years down the road.
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