The New England Patriots conducted a notable visit with a quarterback expected to go early in the 2023 NFL Draft.
New England, which picks No. 14, met with Will Levis late last week. The visit might amount to more than due diligence.
According to NFL Network’s Mike Giardi, the Patriots have “real interest” in Levis. While not everyone within the organization is a fan of the former Kentucky quarterback, some “important folks” believe in him.
Giardi also said Levis “hasn’t blown anyone away” during pre-draft visits.
As I mentioned on Felger & Holley last night, there is real interest in QB Will Levis from the Patriots. Not universally, but there are important folks in that building that believe in the talent. What I’ve heard about his visit from other stops… he hasn’t blown anyone away.
— Mike Giardi (@MikeGiardi) April 25, 2023
Gamblers suddenly seem convinced Levis will be long gone by the time New England is on the clock. Betting markets considered Bryce Young a virtual lock to get selected with the No. 1 pick, but Levis’ betting line shifted seismically Tuesday morning.
The Patriots made Mac Jones the No. 15 pick two years ago and invested a fourth-round selection on Bailey Zappe last year. It’d be interesting to see if Bill Belichick and Co. would take another quarterback if the right one fell.
Most mock drafts compiled by the team predict New England will draft an offensive lineman or cornerback on Thursday night. Perhaps the Pats would pivot to Levis or another passer amid rumors of Jones’ uncertain future in Foxborough.