The New England Patriots are weeks away from reporting to training camp, but ESPN has already begun preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft.
New England secured protection for the 2024 first-round pick Drake Maye when selecting offensive lineman Will Campbell at No. 4 this year. Matt Miller’s way-too-early 2026 mock draft has the Pats locating more help for their young quarterback.
Miller projected the draft order using ESPN’s Football Power Index. Fans may disagree with New England drawing the No. 8 choice amid considerable preseason buzz, but it gives the organization a chance to make its third consecutive top-10 pick.