Multiple trades are anticipated in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, set to commence Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET. The New England Patriots, holding the third pick, are open to trade offers, but they would require a compelling offer to deviate from their plans to select a quarterback.
The New York Giants and the Minnesota Vikings have been actively engaged in trade discussions with the Patriots, particularly due to their interest in acquiring a quarterback. However, their interest may be focused on specific quarterbacks.
With the Washington Commanders expected to draft former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels at No. 2, UNC’s Drake Maye would likely be available at No. 3. The Giants have reportedly expressed strong interest in trading up to the third pick, targeting Maye. Although they have been pursuing this trade scenario, it is currently viewed as a challenging proposition.
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Additionally, reports suggest that the Giants are also intrigued by Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. and may consider selecting him at No. 6. The Giants are described as being open, if not eager, to secure a new quarterback in the first round. While there was previous speculation about Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy as a potential target within the top six picks, recent developments may have altered their plans.
Entering last season, Maye was considered a potential challenger to Caleb Williams for the top quarterback spot in this year’s class. However, his performance throughout the season may have shifted perceptions, potentially placing him as the third-ranked quarterback prospect.
Despite this, Maye achieved a notable milestone by becoming the first FBS quarterback since Deshaun Watson to accumulate over 7,500 passing yards and 1,000 rushing yards in a two-year period. His standout performance in 2022 earned him the ACC Player of the Year title, where he threw for 4,321 yards, 38 touchdowns, and only seven interceptions.
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Meanwhile, Penix has been gaining momentum and rising up draft boards recently. Just a week ago, he was listed at +150 to be selected in the first round, but now he’s at -250 to secure a spot in the top 32 picks. Penix led the FBS in passing yards last season with an impressive 4,903 yards.
He also joined the ranks of players like Patrick Mahomes by achieving multiple seasons of over 4,500 passing yards and 30 passing touchdowns. With his strong arm, Penix led the FBS in completions (60) and passing touchdowns (26) of 25+ air yards over the past two seasons. Additionally, his 37 completions of 25+ air yards in 2023 marked the highest among all FBS quarterbacks in the last five seasons.
Despite extending Daniel Jones’s contract last offseason, the New York Giants have demonstrated significant interest in quarterbacks from this year’s draft class, suggesting they are thoroughly evaluating their options.