NFL Mock Draft: 3 first round mistakes the Patriots cannot afford to make

First round mistakes the Patriots cannot afford to make in the 2023 NFL Draft: Trading pick No. 14 for Trey Lance if the time is right

Previously, I had mentioned that the Patriots shouldn’t consider trading Mac Jones right now, simply because they have far too many other needs glaring at specific positions. And here we are, now talking about trading for a quarterback.

The 49ers are listening to trade offers for Lance, as of Wednesday morning, and if Belichick truly isn’t sold on Jones, then why not take a shot at dealing for Lance?

The question is, what would it take to get the former No. 3 pick?

If San Francisco is desiring a first-round pick for a guy they moved the farm for, then so be it. The Patriots could offer San Francisco their No. 14 selection, however, it would only make sense if the Niners sent New England a later pick back in return. Belichick likely wouldn’t be OK with dealing such a costly pick for a player if he didn’t get another at-bat later on in the draft.

Remember, Lance has appeared in only eight career games over two years. This would be a big gamble. But, the potential of his dual-threat capabilities is still through the roof. We have yet to see what he can do, and if Belichick can develop those skills, Lance couldn’t have asked to be in a better spot.