The New England Patriots find themselves at a crossroads. As the NFL Draft approaches, the question arises: should they invest in a young quarterback? The controversy continues, spurred by analysts like Willie Colon, who believes that starting a rookie quarterback might set the team back greatly.
However, analyst Willie Colon offers a bold take on —drafting a quarterback at number three could set the Patriots back “another 5 years.”
.@willcolon66 on why the Patriots should NOT draft a QB:
"If you start a young quarterback, it will set you back another 5 years." pic.twitter.com/8t0mwRbiRW
— The Carton Show (@TheCartonShow) April 19, 2024
The allure of a potential franchise quarterback is undeniable. A young, talented QB on a rookie contract offers a long-term solution under center, potentially elevating the entire team. Looking at teams like the Cincinnati Bengals with Joe Burrow or the Los Angeles Chargers with Justin Herbert, the impact of a young, elite quarterback is evident.
For the Patriots, who have struggled to find consistent quarterback play since Brady’s departure, the temptation to draft their “guy” at number three is understandable. The 2024 draft class boasts several intriguing quarterback prospects, and securing a potential franchise player could jumpstart the Patriots’ path back to contention.
Analyst Willie Colon’s Cautionary Tale: Why Patience Might Be the Better Play
However, Willie Colon’s argument for caution deserves serious consideration. Drafting a quarterback high in the first round comes with significant risk. Quarterback development takes time, and surrounding a young QB with a strong supporting cast is crucial for success.
The Patriots currently have a young and developing roster. Their offensive line, while not a finished product, has shown promise. The receiving corps boasts talented players like DeVante Parker and Jakobi Meyers. However, compared to teams like the Bengals or Chargers, the overall talent level on the Patriots’ roster might not be enough to support a rookie quarterback right away.
Colon suggests the Patriots focus on solidifying other positions before committing to a young quarterback. Adding another weapon at wide receiver, bolstering the offensive line, or addressing defensive needs could create a more well-rounded team better equipped to support a rookie QB when the time is right.
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