Vozzella’s Patriots Mock Draft 1.0

The NFL Combine has come to a conclusion and teams have a better understanding on potential draft picks. Let’s dive into what the Patriots can do through the draft to improve their team

Round 1, Pick 3 - Jayden Daniels, QB, Louisiana State

Ever since Tom Brady left New England, there has been a glaring hole at the quarterback position. Cam Newton played his part as the bridge, but the Patriots ultimately came up short with their 2021 first-round draft pick, Mac Jones. There is a whole new regime in command, and they need their new franchise cornerstone leading the offense. Daniels exceeds expectations in many aspects of the game. He is far from what New England is used to seeing out of the QB but gives them a great chance to turn the franchise around.

Round 2, Pick 34 - Kingsley Suamataia, OT, Brigham Young

Among the other offensive positions the Patriots have striking weaknesses at, offensive tackle is the most important behind quarterback. Both starting tackles - Trent Brown and Mike Onwenu - are free agents, and it is unlikely New England brings both of them back. Suamataia has experience at both tackle positions and has the athletic ability to hop to the interior of the offensive line. At the age of 21, he can provide Daniels with great protection for years to come.

Photo Credit: Joe Nicholson - USA TODAY Sports

Round 3, Pick 68 - Jalen McMillan, WR, Washington

McMillan played a major role in the offense that went all the way to the national championship this past season while he was healthy. Unfortunately, he only played in seven games due to injury, which caused his draft stock to fall. Fortunately for the Patriots, they get a solid receiver to improve Jayden Daniels’ weapons. McMillan was in the slot for the vast majority of snaps last year, but his elite athleticism and quickness allow for him to move to the outside off the line of scrimmage.

Photo Credit: Gregory Shamus - Getty Images

Round 4, Pick 103 - A.J. Barner, TE, Michigan

Barner transferred to Michigan for his senior year in hopes of getting more recognized while also making a push for the national championship. Both worked out in his favor. Although he was splitting time with fellow tight end Colston Loveland, Barner made a name for himself in all aspects of the game. He proved that he is more than a viable blocker and that he can make plays as a pass-catcher. His well-rounded game makes him an instant upgrade to any TE group.

Round 5, Pick 135 - Dylan Laube, RB, New Hampshire

The FCS standout has been getting a lot of attention as of recent, and deservedly so. Laube dominated at the FCS level, proving to be elite in the receiving game as well as being a great rusher out of the backfield. The question: Will his success correlate at the next level? His receiving skills alone make him a valuable addition to a team, but there’s a chance he is limited to that one dimension.

Round 6, Pick 181 - Marcus Harris, DT, Auburn

The Patriots finally get involved on the defensive side of the ball. Harris put together a good career at Auburn. He was never one for making flashy plays but played his role to a tee. Harris loves to eat double teams and has tremendous upper body strength. He is limited in pass rushing, but can be a formidable player in both the 4-3 and 3-4 defensive schemes.

Photo Credit: Ali Gradischer - The Oregonian

Round 7, Pick 228 - Ryan Cooper Jr., CB, Oregon State

Cooper is not the most talented when it comes to coverage but does the one thing that not many cornerbacks like to do - hit. Cooper is extremely physical and is not afraid to lay his body on the line. As far as coverage goes, he does well in zone, but there is definitely room for improvement in his man coverage. He may be limited to a certain scheme, but seems to have the tenacity to be a contributor at the next level.

Vozzella’s Patriots Mock Draft 1.0

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