3 players Mike Vrabel and the Patriots will target in 2025 NFL Draft
The New England Patriots are looking forward to bring back the old glory with a new head coach and a sophomore quarterback.
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Mike Vrabel (top), Tetairoa McMillan, Will Campbell, Mason Graham (bottom from left to right) (Images via ABC7 New York/On the Tap/Arizona Wildcats/Florida Times Union)
The New England Patriots were one of the most dangerous teams in the history of the National Football League, dominating several seasons with the famous coach and quarterback duo of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady. However, in the past six years, they have only made the playoffs just twice.
Heading into the offseason, the Patriots have some hope after Drake Maye showed promise last season. Maye recorded 2,276 passing yards with 15 touchdowns and a QBR rating of 58.6. The Patriots remodeled themselves this year, hiring Mike Vrabel as their head coach – Vrabel being a protege under Belichick could potentially influence Maye to learn more from the dynasty era.
The Patriots finished quite below last year with just four wins from 17 games, including several close losses, including one against the worst team of the season, the Tennessee Titans. They had several setbacks throughout the season, such as injuries, rising turnovers, and a weak offensive line.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have nine picks. They have one pick in the first, second, fourth, and fifth each, while picking twice in the third round and thrice in the last round. After winning their last game in the regular season, the Patriots fell into fourth place from first in terms of draft order. Although a first pick would have been nice, the Pats have multiple options that they can look into.
Will Campbell, OT, LSU
As said and seen everywhere, picking an offensive tackle with the fourth overall pick might not be the best option. However, the Patriots might not want to skip on a player like Will Campbell.
A three-year starter for the LSU Tigers, Campbell consistently held his own against some of college football’s top pass-rushers. He has shown a blend of strength, athleticism, relentless effort, and polished technique — traits that could translate well to the NFL.
The Patriots’ need for a starting left tackle is glaring, especially with no guarantee of landing free-agent tackle Ronnie Stanley. Drafting Campbell with their first Round 1 pick under the Mike Vrabel regime would address that need.
In addition, the Patriots could do with a player who embodies leadership qualities. Campbell has showcased strong leadership throughout his collegiate career and impressed scouts at the combine with his vocal presence during lineman drills.
Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona Wildcats
The 21-year-old from Arizona Wildcats is one of the potential options that Mike Vrabel and the offensive team would be looking at. As mentioned before, the Pats need to build on the offensive line and bring more power-packed players into the roster.
With a clear need for an “X” wide receiver, the Patriots have limited avenues to address the position through free agency, the draft, or trades. This makes McMillan an intriguing option, especially if New England can trade down, secure an additional Day 2 pick, and still land a playmaker who fills a critical void.
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 219 pounds, he excelled in contested catch situations at Arizona. As a junior in 2024, he hauled in 84 receptions for 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns, earning All-American honors. Although he didn’t test at the Scouting Combine, there has been a buzz going that Vrabel and Eliot Wolf are impressed with the Hawaii-born McMillan.
Mason Graham, DL, Michigan
There’s over a month for the NFL Draft and the free agency is in full swing. There are several opinions on how the Pats might deal with their grueling issues through trades and free agencies. In such a case, Mason Graham is one of the best additions to make their roster more interesting.
The Patriots would like to bring in someone like Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter, but it is unlikely they fall into the fourth pick. The Pats are like the top team in defense, ranking 4th in most carries allowed. Michigan’s Mason Graham has established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line, making a strong case to be a valuable addition to the New England Patriots.
During his third season with the Wolverines, Graham recorded 24 solo tackles and 3.5 sacks, consistently disrupting opposing offenses with his interior pressure and physicality. Under Vrabel, they could build him up to be a defensive cornerstone for years to come.
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