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The New England Patriots are expected to have a tough season in 2024, with their win total set at just 4.5 at most sportsbooks. However, this could lead to a high draft pick, which could be parlayed into a potential franchise quarterback or other key players.

A recent mock draft by ESPN’s Field Yates has the Patriots trading their No. 1 overall pick to the New York Giants for the No. 6 selection and multiple additional picks. In this scenario, the Patriots would select Michigan cornerback Will Johnson at No. 6.

Here is how the first six picks in Yates’ mock draft would play out:

1. Giants (via Patriots): Carson Beck, QB, Georgia

2. Carolina Panthers: James Pearce Jr., Edge, Tennessee

3. Denver Broncos: Kelvin Banks Jr., OT, Texas

4. Tennessee Titans: Shedeur Sanders, QB, Colorado

5. Washington Commanders: Mykel Williams, Edge, Georgia

6. Patriots: Will Johnson, CB, Michigan

Yates explained that he didn’t think the Patriots would prioritize cornerback over other needs, but he didn’t think the class had a strong enough left tackle to warrant the selection.

This move would be surprising, given the Patriots’ weaknesses on the offensive line. They’ve rotated through multiple players on both sides throughout training camp and the preseason, and head coach Jerod Mayo has even limited quarterback Drake Maye’s playing time due to protection issues.

While Will Johnson and 2023 first-rounder Christian Gonzalez could form a strong cornerback duo, the Patriots should focus on building around Maye and addressing their biggest needs – offensive tackle and wide receiver – in the 2025 draft.