New England Patriots set prospect visits with Drake Maye, Jayden Daniels ahead of NFL Draft

The New England Patriots are moving forward with their pre-draft intel gathering this week. On Friday, the team is reportedly hosting former North Carolina Tar Heels star Drake Maye for a top-30 prospect visit. They’ll follow Maye’s visit up with another, hosting 2023 Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels on Monday, according to his agent.

In need of a new starting quarterback and with ownership of the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Patriots are doing their research on their top options. With USC’s Caleb Williams seemingly a lock at No. 1 to the Chicago Bears, Maye and Daniels are the next possible options. The only thing standing in their way is the Washington Commanders with the No. 2 overall selection.

Teams are allowed to host up to 30 of their top draft prospects at their facilities leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft. The draft begins on April 25 in Detroit, Michigan.

Patriots taking closer look at Daniels, Maye

This season at LSU, Daniels broke out with 3,812 passing yards and 40 touchdowns along with 1,134 rushing yards and 10 more scores on the ground. Some believe he has a case as the No. 1 quarterback in the draft, despite the odds favoring Williams.

“It was good,” said Daniels of his meeting with the Pats at the Combine. “To be able to put a name to a face. It was great to talk and get to know them.”

Maye had an excellent 2022 season for UNC, throwing for 4,321 yards and rushing for 698 yards with 45 total touchdowns before dropping off slightly in 2023. The Patriots have already met with Maye multiple times this offseason as well. They had a meeting at the NFL Scouting Combine and another before his Pro Day workout.

“I was really impressed with them,” said Maye of the Patriots at the Combine. “Coach Mayo, I first congratulated him. Anytime you become a new head coach is a pretty cool experience. So, just being in there, and New England is obviously a great sports town, and to meet with them, I thought it went well. I think New England’s a great spot.”

According to ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr.’s latest mock draft, the Patriots will select Maye with the No. 3 overall pick after the Commanders go for Daniels at No. 2.