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Report: Patriots Looking to Upgrade Trenches in Upcoming NFL Draft
Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK

Boston Herald reported (via NBC Sports Boston), citing league sources, that Mason Graham or Will Campbell are the most likely prospects to be drafted by the New England Patriots at No. 4.

There's uncertainty about whether quarterbacks Cam Ward and Shedeur Sanders will be selected in the top three, so this scenario assumes that Travis Hunter and Abdul Carter are already off the board.

If either of them remains available, the Patriots may consider drafting them. However, with both likely gone, these are the prospects New England is targeting. 

New England struggled with one of the worst offensive lines in the league last year and recorded the fewest sacks, so either Graham or Campbell would provide significant improvements.

Additionally, it was mentioned that some members of the Patriots' front office have expressed strong interest in Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona, widely regarded as the top receiver in this class. 

There are rumors that after the top 8-10 prospects, there’s a notable drop in talent. Therefore, if the Patriots trade back, it would likely only be a few spots, with the goal of drafting McMillan.

The likelihood of such a trade depends on the Patriots' history with receiver selections and the perceived weakness of this draft class. With fewer teams likely to trade up, the most probable outcome is that New England drafts either Graham or Campbell. 

Both are undersized for their positions but possess exceptional tape and a strong work ethic. Past players like Joe Burrow and Kyle Hamilton have overcome similar criticisms—such as small hands and slower 40-yard dash times—and turned out just fine.

Combine results are useful for gauging athleticism but don’t measure skill or heart. Unless Hunter or Carter fall to No. 4, the decision will likely come down to which prospect the Patriots favor—Campbell or Graham. If McMillan is their top target, they may trade back if the opportunity arises.

Graham recorded 46 tackles, 3.5 sacks, and a pass deflection last season, while Campbell had a standout year competing against some of the best talent in college football. 

Furthermore, Graham is a powerful, quick, and athletic defensive lineman with a relentless motor, while Campbell is a skilled and athletic offensive lineman with excellent technique and strong run-blocking abilities.

The Patriots face a pivotal decision in the upcoming draft, and fans are eagerly awaiting to see which college star will don the blue and white next season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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