The New England Patriots almost certainly will draft a quarterback later this month in preparation for Tom Brady’s eventual retirement, and Mason Rudolph’s name has come up in that conversation.
The Patriots recently ran the Oklahoma State product through a private workout, according to a report from NFL Media’s Ian Rapoport. Rudolph, whom Rapoport’s source described as “extremely busy,” reportedly has met with or worked out for six teams already, with a visit with the Buffalo Bills scheduled for this weekend.
Also participating in the workout was James Washington, one of the top wide receivers in this year’s draft class.
Following the Brandin Cooks trade earlier this week, the Patriots have four draft picks between No. 23 and No. 63, which should put them in position to select Rudolph if they so choose.
The 22-year-old was highly productive in Oklahoma State’s Air Raid offense, completing 65 percent of his passes for 4,904 yards and 37 touchdowns with nine interceptions as a senior in 2017. Speaking before the NFL Scouting Combine in February, NFL Media draft expert Mike Mayock said Rudolph would be a “logical” fit for the Patriots.
Opinions on his draft stock vary, but most expect Rudolph to come off the board late in the first round or during the second. ESPN’s Mel Kiper had the Patriots selecting him 63rd overall in his latest mock draft, while his colleague, Todd McShay, had him going to the Arizona Cardinals at No. 47.
