A quarterback can make or break a team if last season was any indication. And for the New England Patriots, the combination of a quarterback who lost his confidence and the lack of weapons on offense led to an epic downfall. 

So much so that when the season ended and they still had four wins, it was better than expected. 

But now the team has a clean slate, with a new head coach. All that's left is to bring in a new quarterback. 

However, Jerod Mayo's latest comments might be cause for concern. 

Speaking with NFL Network, Mayo was asked about his plan heading into the 2024 NFL Draft and made it clear that while a quarterback is at the top of their list, it isn't set in stone that they will draft one with the No. 3 overall pick. 

"It's the priority right now," Mayo said. "But with that being said, you have to really be in love with the guy to take him at No. 3. So really all the options are still open for us."

This is the part that's a little concerning. Especially considering that the team is willing to rely on Jacoby Brissett as the potential starter after he was mainly brought in to be a backup and provide veteran leadership in the locker room. 

"A guy like Jacoby, he's a great leader. Everyone loves him. To get him back in the building is definitely helpful for us. And honestly, look, he could absolutely be our starter this year," Mayo added. "We'll have to see. Like I said, we're not dead set at taking a quarterback at No. 3, but we do feel good having a guy like Jacoby ready to go."

The quarterback class this season is very promising. And with that, any of the top three on the list could bring so much to any team. While USC's Caleb Williams is almost certainly going first overall to the Chicago Bears, LSU's Jayden Daniels or UNC's Drake Maye could be the Patriots' next franchise quarterback. 

Behind them, Michigan's J.J. McCarthy, Washington's Michael Penix Jr., and Oregon's Bo Nix have also received high praise. 

So there is no shortage of options. And considering the Patriots are in such a prime spot this draft, there should be no question that they will take a quarterback. 

Especially considering either Daniels or Maye will be available when they are up. 

With these comments, Mayo could be trying to keep the team's plans more secretive, but it seems fairly certain that most people know what they are going to do. And that includes the other teams. 

So why add this doubt in everyone's mind?  

Jerod Mayo reveals the ‘priority’ for the No. 3 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft

However, anything can happen.