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Three players for Patriots to consider on Day 3 of NFL Draft
Rice wide receiver Luke McCaffrey. Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

Three players for the Patriots to consider on Day 3 of the NFL Draft

Successful Day 3 selections can be crucial in fielding a dominant football team. Rams wide receiver Puka Nacua, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy and Chiefs running back Isiah Pacheco were selected in Rounds 4-7 and proved to be difference-makers on the field. 

The New England Patriots have five Day 3 picks for the 2024 draft. Here are three players they should consider.

Luke McCaffrey, Rice - WR

McCaffrey had an impressive senior season with Rice. He gathered 992 yards and 13 touchdowns receiving during the regular season and played well in front of NFL scouts at the Reese's Senior Bowl in February.

Despite having plenty of depth at the position, there is no standout receiver currently on the Patriots. 

McCaffrey would be a cheap, solid addition with the potential to transform the offense.

In a mock draft done by NFL.com, McCaffrey was selected in the third round, making him a fringe Day 3 option. If they want to add McCaffrey, the Patriots will either need to be aggressive in their pursuit of him during Day 3 or hope he falls to the fourth round or later. 

Khyree Jackson, Oregon - CB

Although the Patriots' starting cornerback rotation of Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones and Marcus Jones is one of the best in the NFL, New England needs someone with Jackson's length (6-foot-3) to match against taller receivers.

In 2023 with Oregon, Jackson recorded 25 solo tackles and three interceptions. He features impressive skills in coverage, which has him projected as an early Day 3 pick. 

Tanor Bortolini, Wisconsin - Center

David Andrews, New England's starting center, is 31 years old and in the final year of his contract. The Patriots should plan for the future by drafting Bortolini.

Described as one of Wisconsin's "most versatile linemen," Bortolini would be an important piece on the Patriots offensive line, which needs depth. 

He could work primarily as a center and play reduced roles at both guard spots. A projected mid-Day 3 pick, Bortolini would be a fun add with the capacity to start a few years down the road. 

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