While the New England Patriots have no need at quarterback with promising second-year starter Drake Maye, a trade involving Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders could benefit Maye and company.
That's the forecast by FOX Sports' David Helman, who projects that the Patriots will get to trade down in the draft from No. 4 to No. 6 in a swap with the Las Vegas Raiders. As a result, the Silver and Black will use their new pick to select Sanders.
Las Vegas needs a quarterback of the future behind Geno Smith, and the team notably has former Patriots quarterback Tom Brady as a part owner of the team.
Colorado QB Shedeur Sanders.
New England, meanwhile, would select Missouri offensive tackle Armand Membou. Membou impressed at the NFL Combine with a 4.91-second 40-yard dash, a 34-inch vertical jump, and a 9-foot-7 broad jump.
"What an ideal scenario for the Pats, courtesy of their old friend Tom Brady," Helman wrote. "By trading with Las Vegas, they gain another pick or two without losing their target — a franchise tackle for Drake Maye. With a crazy combination of frame and athleticism, Membou fits the bill. He's also just now turning 21 years old."
New England has urgent needs on the offensive line after quarterbacks took 52 sacks last season — 34 against Maye and 18 against former backup Jacoby Brissett. The Patriots have officially added offensive tackle Morgan Moses thus far in free agency.
Membou would add size and strength at 6-foot-3, 325 pounds to the Patriots' offensive line. He's also durable amid 35 games in three collegiate seasons at Mizzou.
