In New England, a sense of dread had been building among Patriots faithful as their prized fourth overall pick seemed to be losing value with each passing mock draft.
That Week 18 victory over the Buffalo Bills—pushing them down the draft order—was starting to look like a costly moral victory.
But the tide may be turning for the New England Patriots.
In an intriguing development that’s raised eyebrows across the league, top defensive end prospect Abdul Carter is scheduled for a pre-draft visit with the organization this weekend.
“Abdul Carter is headed to New England today for a pre-draft visit with the Patriots that’ll carry into Monday. Caps an interesting week for the favorite to go No. 3 overall to the Giants that started with breakfast with Brian Daboll in State College.” USA Today’s Art Stapleton reported.
Abdul Carter is headed to New England today for a pre-draft visit with the Patriots that’ll carry into Monday. Caps an interesting week for the favorite to go No. 3 overall to the Giants that started with breakfast with Brian Daboll in State College: https://t.co/e6Kvdx25if https://t.co/Do0TwtTeGG
— Art Stapleton (@art_stapleton) April 13, 2025
This visit comes amid swirling draft speculation that has dominated NFL circles for months.
The conventional wisdom has quarterback Cam Ward projected as the Tennessee Titans’ selection at first overall, addressing their glaring need at the position.
The Cleveland Browns, also in the quarterback market, are expected to choose between Carter and Colorado’s versatile Travis Hunter with their pick.
Whoever Cleveland passes on would likely land with the New York Giants at the third spot.
The best-case scenario for New England had always involved both Ward and Colorado’s Shedeur Sanders going in the top three selections, potentially leaving one of the defensive standouts available at four.
But as Sanders’ draft stock cooled in recent weeks, Patriots fans had begun bracing for disappointment.
For the New England Patriots, securing an impact edge rusher remains a priority.
Carter’s rare combination of explosiveness, technical skill, and raw power would address a significant team need.
If the dominoes fall correctly on draft night, the Patriots could land a defensive cornerstone to build around for years to come.
NEXT: Top TE Prospect Reveals Honest Thoughts About Possibly joining Patriots
