Patriots Senior Bowl Prospects: Offensive Players to Watch?
The New England Patriots are on to ... the 2024 NFL Draft.
Draft season unofficially began on Tuesday with the commencement of practices for the 2024 Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile. Over the next few days, more than 100 prospects will participate in practices and one-on-one drills; in preparation for the collegiate All-Star game on Sat. Feb. 3.
Among the Pats scouting contingent in attendance are director of player personnel Matt Groh, college scouting director Camren Williams, and senior personnel advisor Patrick Stewart. Patriots wide receivers coach Troy Brown was also chosen to serve as offensive coordinator for the American team.
Though many players are expected to garner some attention during the week’s events, the Pats will undoubtedly keep a sharp focus on offensive prospects. New England finished the 2023 campaign ranked No. 32 in scoring offense, averaging 13.9 points per game, while managing only 27 touchdowns.
In short, they need all the help they can get.
Accordingly, here are five prospective Patriots that might raise an eyebrow for team scouts throughout the week.
National quarterback Michael Penix Jr., of Washington, runs drills during practice for the Senior Bowl, Tuesday, Jan. 30, 2024, in Mobile, Ala. (AP Photo/ Butch Dill)
Cred: AP Photo/ Butch Dill
Michael Penix, Jr. QB, Washington
The Patriots glaring need at the position inevitably leads to their interest in arguably the highest profile player in Mobile this week. Though Oregon’s Bo Nix will also be on the Pats radar, Penix’s upside makes him the more intriguing option. The Heisman finalist threw for 4,903 yards, 36 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 2023. During the National team’s first practice, he turned in a handful of impressive throws —highlighted by a high-octane completion downfield to Michigan receiver Roman Wilson.
Still, there are concerns about Penix’s ability to adapt to the pro level. During the second half of his 2023 campaign, he had some issues with accuracy and his footwork — leading to oftentimes simple missed connections with his receivers. Though his shoulder injury was likely a factor in his regression, Penix will need to show that he is both healthy and fundamentally prepared for the NFL. While it is highly improbable New England considers him with the No. 3 overall pick, he could be an option if the Pats package the pick to maximize their return on investment.
Brendan Rice, WR, USC
While the Patriots have struggled to find a receiver capable of running precise routes while also winning his battles downfield, they may find their answer in Rice. Unlike his legendary father (Pro Football Hall of Famer, Jerry Rice,) the now ex-Trojan has demonstrated the ability to become an effective X receiver. Last season, he caught 45 passes for 791 yards and 12 touchdowns. At nearly 6-3, he is not a pure separator. However, he is adept at using his size to his advantage when making contested catches, especially against undersized defenders along the boundary.
Patrick Paul, OT, Houston
With the possible exception of quarterback, offensive tackle is the Pats most-pressing position of need. Paul is a massive (6-7, 315) tackle with equally impressive length, quickness and athleticism. Since redshirting as a freshman in 2021, he has been a mainstay on Houston’s offensive line. Paul’s size and versatility allows him to be an imposing physical presence on either side of the line’s edges. Conversely, he develop greater awareness of his height to protect against smaller, savvy pass rushers who have found their way under his wingspan. Still, his above average foot speed should allow him the ability to be a starter at the outset of his career — especially along New England’s struggling line.
Dylan Laube, RB, UNH
Due to his explosive burst and sure hands, Laube was recently deemed a potential “diamond in the rough” Draft prospect by the Locked On Patriots podcast. At 6-1, 225 he is well-sized and sufficiently-skilled to settle into a change-of-pace role at the pro level. In 2023, Laube averaged 4.5 yards per carry for 715 yards and nine touchdowns. He showed impressive receiving ability as well, recording 68 catches for 699 yards and seven scores. Still, his best season actually came as a junior at New Hampshire, when he averaged 4.9 yards per carry for 1,205 yards and 15 touchdowns. He also caught 49 passes that season for 464 yards and two scores. Laube has clearly impressed both scouts and media members during the early stages of practice and could be a smart fit for New England — who has a need for a pass-catching running back.
Jared Wiley, TE, TCU
Having only LaMichael Pettway under contract for 2024, the Pats will have a need at tight end heading into both free agency and the Draft. At 6-7, 260, Wiley possesses both the size and the field awareness to succeed in multiple offensive systems — traits which he showcased during the American team’s practice on Tuesday. In his senior season with the Horned Frogs, he totaled 47 receptions for 520 yards and eight touchdowns. Wiley’s skill set best positions him as a Y tight end at the pro level, aligning slightly flexed away from the tackle. Should the Pats re-sign team captain Hunter Henry, Wiley could be a solid understudy, while gaining experience as an in-line blocker.
The 2024 Senior Bowl is set for kickoff at 1 p.m. on Sat, Feb 3 from Hancock Whitney Stadium.
