The 2024 NFL combine will begin on Thursday, February 29th, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. The New England Patriots currently have seven picks total, one in each round, which will likely change with trades before the end of the draft. After going 4-13, they hold the third overall pick and the second overall pick in the second round (34). This draft is significant for New England, especially with a new coaching staff in place. It appears Jerod Mayo won’t be attending, leaving it up to Elliott Wolf and his team to address many needs, particularly on offense.
![2024 NFL Combine preview](https://985thesportshub.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/88/2024/02/USATSI_20140716-1-1024x774.jpg)
Mar 4, 2023; Indianapolis, IN, USA; The NFL shield logo in the end zone during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
The offense ranked last in scoring alongside Carolina, with just 13.9 points per game, highlighting the need to address positions like quarterback, offensive line, wide receiver, and tight end, along with a relatively weak running back situation. Whether through free agency or the NFL Draft, changes are needed fast. Unless they trade back, quarterback should be option one, with speculation surrounding Marvin Harrison Jr. However, addressing the offensive line and skill positions can also be done effectively in later rounds, given the depth in talent. Let’s delve into some players to watch during the combine and draft process.
![McConkey](https://985thesportshub.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/88/2024/02/GettyImages-1235495848.jpg)
NASHVILLE, TN – SEPTEMBER 25: Ladd McConkey #84 of the Georgia Bulldogs runs with the ball for a touchdown against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the first quarter at Vanderbilt Stadium on September 25, 2021 in Nashville, Tennessee. (Photo by Brett Carlsen/Getty Images)
You may already know some big names like Marvin Harrison Jr., Malik Nabers, Rome Odunze, and Brian Thomas Jr., who could all be gone in the top 20. Players like Keon Coleman from Florida State, Xavier Legette from South Carolina, and Adonai Mitchell from Texas might follow suit, potentially gone by pick 34. Let’s explore some options available later in round two and beyond.