The leading prospects will be in the spotlight at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine this week. With the Patriots possessing top draft picks before April’s event, New England has the opportunity to acquire genuine talent in areas of necessity. In the most recent episode of NESN’s Foxboro Rush podcast, NESN’s George Balekji and Travis Thomas pointed out several players they will be monitoring closely.
Mason Graham, Defensive Tackle
The Michigan player remains associated with the Patriots at the fourth overall spot. He is broadly regarded as one of the leading prospects, with NFL draft specialist Todd McShay placing Graham in his elite group alongside Abdul Carter and Travis Hunter.
“The nearer we approach the draft, this is the name that keeps coming up repeatedly,” Thomas stated. “With each action he takes at the Combine, I’m eager to observe Mason Graham’s performance.”
Graham’s ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage makes him an ideal fit for a team looking to bolster its defensive front. His technique, power, and motor have drawn comparisons to some of the NFL’s top interior linemen. If New England selects him at No. 4, he could be a foundational piece in rebuilding the Patriots’ defensive identity.
Will Campbell, Offensive Tackle
Patriots supporters have listened to a lot about Campbell, the leading offensive tackle candidate, throughout the pre-draft period. The LSU athlete finally has an opportunity to showcase his physical attributes in Indianapolis. A remarkable exhibition of size and power might lead the Patriots to choose Campbell fourth overall.
The Athletic’s Dane Brugler places Campbell as the sixth prospect, whereas NFL Media’s Daniel Jeremiah ranks him at eighth.
Campbell’s appeal lies in his versatility and polished footwork, making him an ideal candidate to anchor the Patriots’ offensive line for years to come. Given the uncertainty surrounding New England’s current offensive line, investing in a player like Campbell could provide immediate protection for whoever lines up under center next season.
Shemar Stewart, Defensive End
Stewart utilizes his length and athleticism on the edge.
“He was created in a laboratory for edge rushers,” Balekji stated. “This is a guy I’m monitoring — not that I adore, but I’m paying attention.”
Brugler ranks the Texas A&M prospect No. 9 overall, making him the third edge rusher after only Carter and Georgia’s Jalon Walker.
Stewart’s explosiveness off the edge and ability to disrupt quarterbacks make him a high-upside pick. If the Patriots opt for a defensive playmaker early in the draft, Stewart could be a name that rises up their board, particularly if he impresses in Combine drills like the 40-yard dash, three-cone drill, and bench press.
Omarion Hampton, Running Back
The Patriots might benefit from an upgrade in their ground game, and Hampton ranks just below Ashton Jeanty among running back prospects.
“The equilibrium this child maintains,” Thomas remarked. “He sprints with strength and velocity.”
Jeremiah places Hampton at No. 19 overall. Hampton accumulated 1,726 scrimmage yards and 16 touchdowns during Drake Maye’s last season at Chapel Hill.
Hampton’s combination of size, vision, and breakaway speed makes him a compelling option for teams needing a dynamic back. The Patriots have historically relied on a strong running game, and pairing Hampton with Rhamondre Stevenson could give them a potent one-two punch in the backfield. His ability to catch passes out of the backfield also adds to his versatility, making him a strong candidate for an every-down role in the NFL.
Jayden Higgins, Wide Receiver
“I believe he’s exceptionally talented,” Balekji stated about the Iowa State player, who arrives at the Scouting Combine measuring 6-foot-4 and weighing 217 pounds.
If the Patriots focus on the trenches in the first round, Higgins is likely to be available when they pick in the second round (No. 38 overall). Brugler places Higgins as the 48th prospect, behind receivers Tetairoa McMillan, Luther Burden III, Emeka Egbuka, and Matthew Golden.
Higgins’ size and ability to high-point catches make him a dangerous red-zone target. The Patriots have lacked a true No. 1 receiver for years, and Higgins could develop into a key playmaker for whoever takes over at quarterback. His ability to create separation will be tested at the Combine, but if he posts strong numbers in the 40-yard dash and agility drills, his stock could rise significantly.
Kyle Kennard, Defensive End
Kennard seems to be a player that Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel would appreciate on Day 2. The 6-foot-4, 248-pound athlete finished his college career at South Carolina, tallying 11 1/2 sacks across 12 games.
“His strength lies in his length,” stated Balekji, who likened Kennard to three-time Pro Bowl defensive end Za’Darius Smith.
Brugler places Kennard at No. 87, and New England holds two third-round picks (Nos. 69 and 77) in that range. Kennard, who spoke with the Patriots during the Senior Bowl, described New England’s Keion White as a “big brother” type.
Kennard’s ability to get into the backfield quickly makes him an intriguing option for a team looking to bolster its pass rush. While he might not be a Day 1 selection, his production and physical tools suggest he could develop into a valuable rotational player with starter potential down the road.
How These Prospects Fit New England’s Draft Strategy
With multiple needs on both sides of the ball, the Patriots’ draft strategy will likely revolve around selecting the best available player at each pick. With a new head coach in Mike Vrabel, the team could prioritize physicality and versatility—two traits many of these prospects possess.
A defensive-minded coach like Vrabel could be drawn to Graham’s dominance on the interior, Stewart’s edge-rushing prowess, or Kennard’s potential. On the offensive side, selecting Campbell would provide an instant boost to the offensive line, while adding Higgins would give the receiving corps a much-needed playmaker.
The Patriots also face questions at quarterback, and their draft approach could be influenced by whether they pursue a veteran or opt to develop a young signal-caller. If they address quarterback in free agency, focusing on building a strong supporting cast through the draft becomes even more critical.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine will play a crucial role in determining where these prospects land. Strong performances could solidify their status as top picks, while underwhelming showings might raise questions about their transition to the NFL.
For Patriots fans, keeping an eye on these six players will provide insight into how the team may approach the draft. With key decisions looming, New England has the chance to reshape its roster and lay the foundation for future success.
