NFL Draft update: How Patriots’ upset in Denver changes their draft position

The Patriots’ thrilling 26-23 victory on Christmas Eve sparked a lot of controversy among Patriots fans. Although, it was a gritty and impressive win for the Patriots, it came at a cost. The team entered the week in control of the No.2 pick in the 2024 NFL draft but dropped to No.4 after beating the Broncos.

Since the Commanders and Cardinals both won, the Patriots are now at risk of losing a top-three selection.

First, let’s take a look at the updated top 10 draft order.

1. Chicago Bears, via 2-13 Carolina Panthers

2. Arizona Cardinals, 3-12

3. Washington Commanders, 4-11

4. New England Patriots, 4-11

5. Tennessee Titans, 5-10

6. Los Angeles Chargers, 5-10

7. New York Giants, 5-9

8. Chicago Bears, 6-9

9. New York Jets, 6-9

10. Las Vegas Raiders, 6-8

It’s important to note – that tiebreakers are given to the team with a better strength of schedule and are not determined by any head-to-head matchup.

With two more games on the slate for the Patriots, they’ll need help from the Cardinals and Commanders, who are also fighting for the second pick. The Commanders will finish their season against the 49ers and Cowboys, while the Cardinals will play the Eagles and the Seahawks. So it’s very likely both Washington and Arizona could lose out.

Looking at the Patriot’s remaining opponents, they’ll square off against the Bills in Buffalo and will host the Jets in Week 18. The Patriots have already beaten both of those teams.

So, if Washington and Arizona both lose out, the Patriots can’t finish higher than pick No. 4 in the draft. But if the Patriots lose out, they’re at least guaranteed a Top-4 selection.

So, unfortunately, the road to a top-two pick in the draft got even more daunting. It will require much work for the Patriots to slide back to No.2 and optionally draft a franchise quarterback. The league has a consensus that both quarterbacks Caleb Williams and Drake Maye will be taken in the top-4. If the Patriots can’t secure one of the top quarterbacks, their offseason just got that more interesting.