Their biggest need is rather obvious.

But that doesn’t mean the New England Patriots will use their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on an offensive tackle. They could go in a different direction given the most talented prospects in the class do not play offensive tackle.

Pro Football Focus’ Trevor Sikkema is among those who believe the Patriots will address a different need. PFF recently released a three-round mock draft and predicted New England will select Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan with the fourth overall pick.

New England currently is slated to pick No. 4 behind the Jacksonville Jaguars, Las Vegas Raiders and New York Giants.

“This pick might be surprising since it’s not an offensive lineman, but with over $115 million in projected effective cap space, the Patriots have the financial flexibility to address the offensive line with quality veterans in free agency,” Sikkema wrote. “That could allow them to prioritize a high-ceiling pass catcher like Tetairoa McMillan at the top of the draft.

“The 6-foot-6, 210-pound receiver showcases shades of Mike Evans and Drake London, with smooth movements for his size and exceptionally strong hands.”

The Patriots then will select Alabama guard Tyler Booker in the second round (No. 36) and Ohio State edge rusher J.T. Tuimoloau in the third round (No. 68 overall), per PFF. While Booker has some size (6-foot-5, 325 pounds) and length, he’s started 10 games at left guard this year and is viewed as an interior lineman at the next level.

It would be an eye-popping surprise if the Patriots did not use any of their top three selections on an offensive tackle. Because while the Patriots need to improve at wide receiver, interior line and edge-rusher, neither is a bigger need than an offensive tackle.

New England might be better off using multiple picks on offensive tackles and spending money on free-agent wideouts, a contrast from Sikkema’s line of thinking.