Who the Patriots have shown, not shown interest in at the NFL Combine
The NFL Scouting Combine is a chance for teams to evaluate the physical skills soon-to-be-drafted players possess. The New England Patriots have had interviews with some of the draft's top players, but not all.
The Big Three
With the third overall pick and an open starting QB spot, the Patriots have been directing major attention to the best signal-callers in Indianapolis. According to the Boston Globe, the draft's top three QBs — Caleb Williams, Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye — have interviewed with the Patriots.
Williams noted that his interview with the Patriots was "cool" and personalized, Daniels said it would "be dope" to play for the Patriots and Maye added he came away "really impressed" after his interview.
The Patriots are guaranteed to have at least one of the three aforementioned names available on the night of the draft.
Marvin Harrison Jr., wide receiver
Harrison Jr. is the best WR in the draft, and the Patriots have kept their tabs on him. Per MassLive's Mark Daniels, Harrison Jr. met with the Patriots this week.
If New England elects to add their starting QB via non-draft means, Harrison Jr. would be a candidate for selection at third overall. He will be an interesting name to follow during the pre-draft process.
One fringe first-round QB talks, while another doesn't
The 2024 National Championship's rivaling QBs — JJ McCarthy (Michigan) and Michael Penix (Washington) — have given different answers when asked about their interactions with New England. According to the Boston Globe's Christopher Price, McCarthy revealed that he had an interview with the Patriots, while Penix stated he was yet to interview.
McCarthy and Penix are unlikely to be selected at third overall, but could fall to the Patriots in the second round. New England's disinterest in Penix is not set in stone, but currently, McCarthy looks to be the favorite among Patriots personnel.
McCarthy seemed fond of New England. He described head coach Jerod Mayo as "awesome," and stated it would "be an honor" to play for the Patriots.
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