“Why the Patriots’ Pursuit of a Top RB Prospect Could Signal a Bold Shift in Strategy—But at What Cost?”

As the New England Patriots gear up for what promises to be an intriguing new chapter, the excitement surrounding their offseason moves is palpable. They’ve made some smart investments this year, most notably hiring the seasoned Mike Vrabel to take the helm as head coach. Yet, despite the optimism, there lingers the question of how best to fill out a roster that still bears the scars of past seasons. Enter analyst Mike Giardi, who raises a critical point about the potential selection of running back Ashton Jeanty with the fourth overall pick in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft. Giardi argues that this choice might fall into the realm of luxury picks—those tantalizing selections often reserved for franchises that are merely a player away from contention. Do the Patriots find themselves in that coveted position, or are they still searching for foundational pieces to solidify their franchise’s future? The answer may define their draft strategy, and as we dive deeper into this conversation, the complexities of building a competitive team in today’s NFL come to the forefront.

The New England Patriots are getting ready to start a new era.

They spent their money wisely for the most part this offseason, and they brought in proven winner Mike Vrabel to be their head coach.

However, even though the Patriots should be better next season, their roster is far from complete.

That’s why analyst Mike Giardi believes they should not select running back Ashton Jeanty with the No. 4 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

“It’s a luxury pick and this team can’t afford luxury right now,” Giardi said, via Patriots on CLNS Media.

"[Ashton Jeanty is] a luxury pick and [the #Patriots] can't afford luxury right now."

"You earn the right to be able to draft those guys,"

NEW All 32 NFL Podcast: @MikeGiardi & @Willpa11 discuss boom or bust prospects pic.twitter.com/wPzAeltnPo

— Patriots on CLNS Media (@PatriotsCLNS) April 15, 2025

Giardi said that NFL teams earn the right to get players like Jeanty, who are often seen as the missing piece of the puzzle to compete at the highest level.

The Patriots aren’t in that situation right now and need to add foundational pieces and building blocks before getting a player like that.

Jeanty posted some of the most impressive numbers by any running back in college football history, and though he didn’t always face high-end competition, he has all the traits to be an elite running back in the NFL.

One could make a case that the Patriots need a player of his caliber, especially considering how much pressure it would take off quarterback Drake Maye.

Nevertheless, with Abdul Carter, Mason Graham, Will Campbell and Armand Membou likely available, perhaps the Patriots would be better off going in a different direction with their first-round pick.

The post Insider Believes Top RB Prospect Is A ‘Luxury Pick’ Patriots Can’t Afford appeared first on The Cold Wire.