NFL Tickets
The New England Patriots are one of the stronger teams in the AFC, but this offseason they need to add some depth to the team to avoid being derailed by injuries once again. With that in mind, here’s a look at an early seven-round mock draft for the team.
Round 2: OL Germain Ifedi - Texas A&M
Getty ImagesThe Patriots really need some help on the offensive line. If Ifedi is available with their first pick, I would expect him to be the choice. Ifedi had a solid career at Texas A&M, and he should be able to play either guard position or right tackle at the next level. At his best, he could start in place of either Shaq Mason or Josh Kline right away. Worst-case scenario he plays as a backup swing tackle in his rookie year.
Round 3: WR Rashard Higgins - Colorado State
Getty ImagesIt’s no secret that the Patriots need some help at the receiver position, and I have a feeling they will be interested in Higgins. Higgins is a well-rounded receiver who was very productive during his career at Colorado State. He worked best with Garrett Grayson at the helm, but he still had over 1,000 receiving yards during his final season. If he did not have such a slight frame (only 188 pounds) he might sneak into the first round.
Round 4: S Karl Joseph - West Virginia
Getty ImagesThis would be the ultimate Patriots pick. Joseph was considered one of the top safeties in this class, and he could have been an early second-round pick if he had not gotten injured this season. In limited action, Joseph had five picks and showed great coverage ability. The Patriots will need some depth at safety with Tavon Wilson and Nate Ebner leaving, and Joseph could become a long-term starter for the team once he’s healthy.
Round 6: RB Kenyan Drake - Alabama
Getty ImagesFor all the talk about Derrick Henry, there has been relatively little buzz about his backup, Kenyan Drake. Drake averaged 5.4 yards per carry this season, and he has a chance to be a very good rotational back at the NFL level. The Patriots run a back-by-committee approach, and Drake could end up being a steal for them. He could displace LeGarrette Blount as the starter if the Patriots elect not to re-sign him.
Round 7: C Dan Voltz - Wisconsin
Getty ImagesI’m not a big fan of Bryan Stork. He’s a mediocre starter who struggled for a chunk of last season. At this juncture, the Patriots can afford to add another lineman, and Voltz may end up being a better blocker than Stork. Voltz had a solid career at Wisconsin, and he could end up being a starter as a rookie for the team.
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