The New England Patriots' possession of the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NFL draft might not stop them from pursuing a veteran quarterback in free agency.
The Patriots are "very high" on Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield, according to The Athletic's Jeff Howe.
Howe considers the Patriots' likelihood of acquiring Mayfield a "long shot."
Reasons why include New England's draft position, rumors that the Buccaneers and Atlanta Falcons are also interested in Mayfield, and projections that Mayfield's next contract could be worth $120 million.
Mayfield recorded a career-high 4,044 passing yards and 28 touchdowns in 17 starts on a one-year deal for the Buccaneers in 2023.