JUST IN:Patriots Have Fourth Pick in NFL Draft: Top Players to Watch Ahead of Scouting Combine

JUST IN:Patriots Have Fourth Pick in NFL Draft: Top Players to Watch Ahead of Scouting Combine

As the NFL Scouting Combine draws near, the New England Patriots stand in an enviable position with the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This pick presents an opportunity for Bill Belichick and his front office to secure a foundational piece for the team’s future, whether it’s on offense, defense, or special teams. With a few key positions still in need of bolstering, this year’s draft class is filled with intriguing prospects that could transform the Patriots roster. As the combine approaches, all eyes will be on a select few players who could be the key to the Patriots’ future success.

The Importance of the Fourth Pick for the Patriots

The fourth pick gives the Patriots a chance to select one of the best players in the draft, and the pressure to make the right call has never been higher. New England’s 2024 season was a mixed bag, with an offense that struggled to find its rhythm, a defense that showed promise but ultimately lacked consistency, and special teams that occasionally let them down. This makes it clear: the Patriots need an impact player who can either stabilize their existing core or elevate their squad to compete with top AFC teams.

Given the way the NFL has evolved, the Patriots’ need for a playmaker who can make a quick impact is paramount. Whether it’s adding a franchise quarterback, a game-changing wide receiver, or a dominant defensive force, the right pick can make all the difference. But with so much talent in this year’s draft class, the decision will be far from simple. The Scouting Combine, which is typically the first major event in the lead-up to the draft, will give scouts, coaches, and executives their first real chance to assess these players in action, and it will be crucial for the Patriots in their evaluation.

Players to Watch

1. Caleb Williams – Quarterback, USC

Though the Patriots already have Mac Jones at quarterback, many wonder if the team might look to take a new direction under center. Williams, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, has been one of the most talked-about prospects heading into the draft. Known for his ability to extend plays with his legs while maintaining exceptional accuracy downfield, Williams has all the tools to be a star in the NFL. His performance at the Scouting Combine will be closely watched by teams at the top of the draft, but a strong showing might also make Belichick consider a future replacement for Jones, especially if New England falters in 2025.

2. Marvin Harrison Jr. – Wide Receiver, Ohio State

It’s no secret that the Patriots’ receiving corps has struggled to provide Mac Jones with the playmakers he needs. With only a handful of reliable weapons in the passing game, the Patriots might look to take advantage of a special talent like Harrison. The son of Hall of Famer Marvin Harrison, Harrison Jr. has shown exceptional route running, separation skills, and the ability to go up and get the ball. At 6’4″, 205 pounds, he combines size and athleticism, making him a tough matchup for any defensive back. A strong performance at the combine could solidify him as one of the top options for the Patriots.

3. Jared Verse – Edge Rusher, Florida State

One of the biggest needs for New England is a dynamic edge rusher to pair with Matthew Judon and provide consistent pressure on the quarterback. Jared Verse is an explosive pass rusher who has earned comparisons to some of the NFL’s elite sack artists. He has an elite first step and the ability to bend around the edge, giving him the potential to become an immediate impact player. With the Patriots struggling to get to opposing quarterbacks last season, adding a player like Verse could provide a game-changing boost to their defense. Expect his combine numbers, particularly in the 40-yard dash and the 3-cone drill, to be closely scrutinized.

4. Brock Bowers – Tight End, Georgia

The tight end position is another area where the Patriots could look to upgrade. After years of relying on aging veterans like Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith, the team could be eyeing a player who can create mismatches across the middle of the field. Brock Bowers, Georgia’s star tight end, is a dynamic receiving threat who can line up in multiple spots on the field. With impressive hands, exceptional run-after-catch ability, and a penchant for making plays in clutch moments, Bowers could be the game-changer New England has been searching for at the tight end position. His combine performance will be under intense scrutiny, especially when it comes to his agility and 40-yard dash time.

5. Kelee Ringo – Cornerback, Georgia

With the Patriots having one of the best cornerbacks in the league in JC Jackson, it could be time to add another lockdown corner to the fold. Kelee Ringo, a top-tier cornerback out of Georgia, has all the traits necessary to become an immediate starter at the next level. Standing at 6’2″, 210 pounds, Ringo is a physical player who excels at disrupting receivers at the line of scrimmage. He has the speed and agility to keep up with even the fastest wide receivers, and his ability to read the quarterback’s eyes gives him the potential to thrive in Belichick’s defensive schemes. At the combine, expect Ringo to put up impressive numbers that will highlight his top-tier athleticism.

6. Olu Fashanu – Offensive Tackle, Penn State

One area where New England could also use some help is along the offensive line. While the line has some solid players, they need to protect Mac Jones more effectively, especially in crucial moments. Fashanu, one of the best offensive line prospects in the draft, has the size (6’6″, 330 pounds) and strength to dominate at the next level. His combination of power and quick feet allows him to handle speed rushers and bull rushes alike. A strong showing at the combine, particularly in the bench press and shuttle drills, will give the Patriots front office plenty to consider when assessing their needs.

Conclusion

With the fourth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have an incredible opportunity to select a player who can help restore the team to championship contention. As the NFL Scouting Combine approaches, all eyes will be on the aforementioned prospects who could be game-changers for the Patriots. Whether the team opts for a quarterback like Caleb Williams, a wide receiver like Marvin Harrison Jr., or a dynamic pass rusher like Jared Verse, the right pick could set the Patriots on the path to success for years to come. The combine will be a critical moment for evaluating talent, and it’s sure to shape theteam’s draft strategy moving forward.