PFW’s Final Patriots Mock Draft
Round 1A
Jon Beason, LB Miami (6-0, 237)– When we came back from the Combine and did our first mock draft, we had the Patriots selecting Beason with the 24th pick in the draft. Actually, I believe we were the first ones to predict Beason to the Pats. That set off a floodgate of e-mails asking if we had lost our minds. One e-mailer even declared that Beason wouldn’t be drafted on the first day. Well, Beason isn’t only going to be picked on the first day, he may not even be on the board when the Patriots select.
At the Combine we heard the Patriots had a lot of interest in Beason and since then, they’ve done nothing to make us think otherwise. New England worked Beason out down in Miami and he also visited Gillette Stadium this month. Add all this up and Beason is a definite possibility to become a Patriot on draft day.
On the surface, Beason looks like a Tampa 2 outside linebacker but that’s not necessarily the case. He has the toughness and physical ability to move inside and play the MIKE in a 3-4 scheme. That would give the Patriots the luxury of grooming Beason behind Tedy Bruschi and using him on passing downs as a rookie because of his good coverage skills. Beason is also a big hitter and solid special teams player. He would have an instant impact on the Patriots defense and add some much needed youth and athleticism to an ageing position.
Michigan’s David Harris is also a strong possibility with this pick, as is a defensive back.
Round 1B
LaMarr Woodley, DE/OLB Michigan (6-1, 268)– I really think the Patriots are going to trade down from this spot and acquire a second round pick but if they stay, New England has the luxury of taking the best player available. In my opinion, that player would be Woodley.
Let me start off by saying that I think there is going to be a big run on defensive backs in the first round. I don’t believe Michael Griffin, Reggie Nelson, Brandon Meriweather, Leon Hall, Chris Houston or Darrelle Revis will be on the board at this point. If one of those players is available, they will certainly be a strong possibility with this pick.
I think Woodley is one of the best “football players” in the draft and will be a future stud at the pro level. I keep hearing about his size and questions about where he’s going to play in the NFL but when you watch him on tape, he’s a monster that does a lot of things well. His style of play is very similar to a guy the Patriots just paid a lot of money to acquire this offseason.
Woodley is a tremendous athlete, versatile, extremely quick and works his tail off. When you’re talking about value at the end of Round 1, there will be very few, if any, players left on the board more talented than Woodley. He could be a pass rushing terror in New England’s defense for years to come. A coach like Bill Belichick could do wonders with a player of his ability. With Woodley, Adalius Thomas and Rosevelt Colvin rushing from the edge, Peyton Manning will have a lot of sleepless nights.
Like I said, I see the Patriots moving down from this spot and getting a second round pick, which they could then use on a running back like Tony Hunt, Lorenzo Booker, Brian Leonard, Kenny Irons or Michael Bush. There are going to be a lot of backs that go in Round 2, so New England needs to get a pick in that area if there’s one in particular they’re eyeing.
Round 3
Josh Gattis, S Wake Forest (6-1, 206)– If the draft unfolded this way, Gattis would be a steal for the Patriots here. Gattis weighs 206 pounds, although he has a thick build and really unloads on ball carriers. He’s a smart player who’s rarely out of position on the field. Gattis does a good job of covering the short middle of the field, something a lot of safeties struggle with.
A couple of reasons why Gattis doesn’t get a lot of national publicity are because he played for Wake Forest and he’s not a “wow” player. What I mean by that is when you see LaRon Landry play he wows you with his vicious hits and incredible speed in coverage. Gattis is more of a lunch pale-type player. He may not be flashy but Gattis is very consistent and reliable. He’s a leader on the field and a guy I believe can step right in and contribute as a rookie because of his intelligence.
Gattis is also a good special teams player. In 2005, he led the ACC with 15 special teams tackles. Gattis shows great instincts on the field and was the leader of a very good Wake Forest defense last year. We get a lot of e-mails referring to certain prospects as being a “Patriots-kind of player”. If you’re searching for a Patriots-kind of player (Intelligent, tough, versatile, team-first attitude), then look no further than Gattis. He reminds me a lot of former Bronco Steve Atwater with the way he plays. Gattis should be a quality starting safety in the NFL for the next 10 years. I think most teams would take that.
Aaron Rouse, the bone-jarring safety out of Virginia Tech, would be another good selection in this spot.
Round 4
Michael Coe, CB Alabama State (6-0, 190)- Coe played his first two seasons at Arkansas before transferring to Division 1-AA Alabama State for his senior year. He also played some safety and returned kicks in college, so he has the versatility Belichick likes from his defensive backs. Coe was a late addition to the Senior Bowl but helped his cause by having a good week of practice and intercepting a pass in the game. Since then, Coe’s draft stock has been on the rise.
Coe has the size to play both corner and safety in the NFL, but he’ll probably start off his career as a nickel cornerback. He’s a very instinctive player (which is important at the cornerback position) who has tremendous ball skills. Coe goes up and fights receivers for the ball and does a good job of getting his head turned around. He also uses his body well to overpower smaller receivers.
Coe isn’t going to come in and be a superstar right off the bat. However, in New England he doesn’t have to. Coe can contribute to the Patriots by being their fourth or fifth defensive back and returning kicks during his rookie year. But make no mistake about it, Coe does have the physical tools to be a starter in the NFL and after a year or two under Belichick’s tutelage, he should be ready to shine in the Patriots secondary.
Usama Young is rising up draft boards and was recruited by current Patriots defensive coordinator Dean Pees when he was the head coach of Kent State. Young is also a strong possibility if he’s still on the board at this point.
Round 5
Chris Davis, WR Florida State (5-10, 185) – Davis was one of the most impressive receivers we saw on tape and that says a lot considering who was throwing him the football at Florida State. Davis is also a guy the Patriots have shown interest in leading up to the draft.
Davis comes out of his breaks very quickly, a quality the Patriots look for in their receivers. He’s explosive in the open field and Davis made a lot of tough catches on tape due to the awful quarterback play at Florida State. That’s the main reason why Davis’ production isn’t better. It’s hard for a receiver to put up big numbers when their quarterbacks can’t play.
One of the things I like most about Davis is he’s fearless going over the middle. He kind of reminds me of a faster version of Wes Welker. Despite his size, Davis will go into traffic and take a big hit. He has great hands and is an effective blocker for a smaller receiver.
Davis would be a good selection for the Patriots on Day 2 of the draft. His game is refined and I think he could come in and contribute as a slot receiver and kick returner as a rookie. Also, Davis’ best days are still ahead of him. Unlike Florida State, the Patriots actually have a quarterback who throws the ball pretty well.
Round 6A
DeAndre Jackson, CB Iowa State (5-11, 193) – Jackson is a mid-round prospect I’m extremely high on. He’s one of the most athletic corners available this year and he really has a nose for the football. Jackson showed great instincts on tape. He’s quick to react to the ball and knocks down a lot of passes.
Jackson is a player who could be a real steal because he’s coming off an injury. He tore his ACL last year and missed the second half of his senior season. If Jackson didn’t get hurt, he might have been a second round prospect but now he could slip to the fifth or sixth round. That’s great value for a player with Jackson’s physical skills.
Besides being an impressive cornerback, Jackson is also an exceptional kick returner and special teams player. He’s someone who is always around the ball and is very similar to another former Cyclone, Ellis Hobbs. If he’s still on the board in the sixth round, Jackson could be reunited with Hobbs in New England. He’s a very talented corner and return man with a lot of upside.
Round 6B
Desmond Bishop, ILB Cal (6-1, 239)– Bishop is a player we’ve been projecting to the Patriots all along because we know he’s someone they’ve been showing interest in since before the Combine. Bishop is one of the better run-stuffing linebackers in the draft. He’s not blazing fast and won’t wow anyone running the 40, but when you see him on the field he just makes plays. Bishop led the Pac-10 with 124 tackles last year, so he’s proven to be a force against the run.
Bishop is that big, physical linebacker the Patriots haven’t had since Ted Johnson retired. He’s very productive playing in the box and Bishop has the size to take on bigger offensive linemen. He trimmed down to 239 pounds so he could improve his speed for pro scouts but Bishop’s natural playing weight is closer to 245 pounds, with the frame to carry 250. He played some 3-4 at Cal but still needs to improve in coverage. At the Combine he said his favorite thing to do is take on big guards and throw them off to the side before making a tackle. Sounds like the kind of linebacker that would be a good fit in the Patriots scheme.
Round 6C
Dwayne Wright, RB Fresno State (5-11, 231)- Wright is a big guy who can play that RB/FB hybrid position similar to Heath Evans and Patrick Pass. The former Bulldog is a powerful runner who wears down defenses between the tackles. He doesn’t have great speed but is a versatile player who can do a lot for a team. Wright’s ability to pound the ball and get the tough yards would be a nice complement to Laurence Maroney’s slashing running style.
Wright came back in 2006 after tearing the patellar tendon in his knee to rush for 1,462 yards and 11 touchdowns as a junior. He also caught 29 passes last season for Fresno State. Because he’s not very fast, Wright will probably never be an every-down back in the NFL. However, his ability to block, play special teams and be a short-yardage back makes him an intriguing prospect late in the draft.
Oregon State tight end Joe Newton is another possibility if he’s still available in the sixth round.
Round 6D
Ryne Robinson, WR Miami (5-9, 180) – Robinson is a late-round receiver I really like. He’s coming into the draft under the radar but Robinson was very productive in college and has impressive physical skills. As a junior, Robinson caught 75 passes for 1,119 yards and eight touchdowns. He had an even better senior season, finishing with 91 receptions for 1,178 yards and eight scores. He finished his career at Miami, Ohio averaging 14.3 yards per catch.
On tape, Robinson showed he’s fearless going over the middle and racked up a lot of yards after the catch. He has great hands and is also a crisp route runner. He’s not very big but Robinson is a tough guy who breaks a lot of tackles for his size. He’s a dangerous deep threat, although he turned a lot of short receptions into long gains as well. Robinson is also an explosive kick returner because he gets upfield quickly. In my opinion, Robinson is a big-time sleeper and would be a great selection by the Patriots in the later rounds of the draft.
Round 7
Jeff Rowe, QB Nevada (6-5, 226)– I think with four sixth round selections and a seventh, the Patriots will pick a young quarterback in this draft. They like Washington’s Isaiah Stanback and he will be a definite possibility if he’s still on the board in Round 6. However, Stanback is on the rise and I’m not sure if the Patriots would pull the trigger on him in the fifth round, unless they really like his potential as a receiver. If New England can’t get the versatile Stanback, Rowe could be a possibility late in the draft.
Rowe was the MVP of the East-West Shrine Game and was productive as Nevada’s starting quarterback over the last three years. In his last two seasons, Rowe connected on 63 percent of his passes, while throwing 38 touchdowns and 18 interceptions in Nevada’s “Pistol” offense.
Rowe has a long way to go before he’s ready to step on the field in the NFL but he’s accurate, throws a nice ball and moves around well in the pocket. If the Patriots decide to go with a quarterback late in the draft, Rowe – along with Oregon State’s Matt Moore, Central Missouri State’s Toby Korrodi and Idaho State’s Matt Gutierrez – could be possible targets.
Be sure to check back here tomorrow as we’ll be doing a first round NFL mock draft. We will also be kicking off our “Draft Buzz” section where we let you know all the rumors we’re hearing from around the league. We have some really interesting rumors to share, so don’t miss it.
April 25, 2007 at 2:27 pm
Tom Cassale the King has arrived!!! Keep up the good work, Iam amazed at the level of inputs you could give on college players. Though it is your job I think you are great in analysis of skillsets of players.
April 25, 2007 at 2:45 pm
Beason and Timmons would be great selections but arent both of them LB’s. I wish we grab Griffin after hearing so much from Andy and Tom. As usual guys in PFW rock and so does New England.
Tom- who do you think DAL is going to pick?
April 25, 2007 at 2:47 pm
Wow, interesting! 3 DBs and 3 LBs, bug Tom really believes those are pretty big holes! Like the selctions overall, and totally agree with suspicion that Pats are going to try and trade down into second, but can’t see many teams being too hungry for it.
April 25, 2007 at 2:53 pm
Pats have four 6-round picks, don’t they?
April 25, 2007 at 3:01 pm
Hey Casale you moron. I thought the team had 10 picks. You only have 9. And I’ve heard Chris DAvis is the most overrated reciever in the draft. And Wright is a fullback in the making. Woodley can’t play in the pats system and no CB early in the draft. I will throw up if this is how the draft plays out. Thankfully I don’t think you know what you are talking about anyway.
April 25, 2007 at 3:04 pm
Sorry guys, I left out Ryne Robinson orginally when I cut and pasted this from the Word document. He is the fourth sixth round selection. Thanks for bringing that error to my attention Mark L. and thanks for all the replys so far. Good or bad, keep them coming.
Also, I don’t know who the Cowboys will draft but whoever it is, it will be a bad selection because Jerry Jones is a rich guy pretending to be an NFL General Manager.
April 25, 2007 at 3:42 pm
Billy, your people should talk to the Patriots people about Davis because they’ve shown a lot of interest in him, going all the way back to the Senior Bowl. I’m sure if they select him, your tone will turn from he’s overrated to “What a great pick.” And Woodley can play in any system. That’s why the Patriots worked him out. Finally, I believe I wrote that Wright was a FB/HB hybrid. Did you actually read any of this? Anyway thanks for the comments and like I’ve always stated, I don’t know who the Patriots will pick. This is just my best guess.
April 25, 2007 at 4:04 pm
Hey Casale, I’m a big fan. Just a minor criticism. You might want to amend those first few picks to signify what position they play.
April 25, 2007 at 4:11 pm
Nice job with your picks. I am hoping that Brandon Merriwether and Aaron Ross are available with the 24th & 28th picks. This would help them to shore up the secondary. If Stewart Badley the LB from Nebraska is available in the 3rd round I would go after him, or Tim Shaw LB from Penn State later in the 4th. You never know what Bill and Scott are going to do, but its fun to speculate. NFL Draft is the best time of the year.
April 25, 2007 at 4:16 pm
Tom I love everything you write. I also think the Pays wabt to trade out of 28. We disagree on McCauley. I think he’s a potential Pro Bowler and would be a great value if they could get him in the mid to high 2nd round area. I also think Zak DeOssie is a possibilty in round 4. I agree with you that LB and DB are where the team is leaning and think you could see 6 taken. I wouldn’t be surpised if with a 6th or 7th round pick they might take a T late to see if they can develop him. Just curious to your thoughts.
April 25, 2007 at 4:17 pm
Thats a great reply Tom! I think DAL pick up WR and that wont serve them much. Hey any thoughts on BB going up to grab Nelson/Griffin if most of the defense guys are picked higher like last year. I guess Merriweather will be available at where pats pick but dont they gain by moving up to get Nelson and take timmons in the early second round.
Hey Billy dont go personal on your comments, it just makes this blog system look bad. Lets try to show the world that Patriots fans are distinguished and well behaved crowd.
April 25, 2007 at 4:20 pm
Great job!! What about Anthony Spencer? I see him as Willie McGinest 3.0 (think of Rosie as Willie McGinest 2.0). I believe in reinforcing success - the ridiculously dominant pass-rushing of Adalius, Rosie, Ty, Richard, and my man Jarvis Green coupled with a new stud would do a lot to mitigate a mediocre secondary . . . any thoughts??
April 25, 2007 at 4:21 pm
Tom is it just going to be you or is FRANK going to add his comment as well. Just kidding appreciate if Andy also jumps in and provide his comments. Amongst the first day selections last year we know that Pats worked out Maroney and Jackson. How about the previous year? Can you give us any player drafted by pats in the first three rounds who were not worked out by Scouts personally? I know the value of the lower round picks but the importance of the first day picks are higher because the team is aiming to get starters there. I know its a tall task but can you provide for the last three or four years just to get a fair idea on who all they wont draft because Pats didnt work out few top picks.
April 25, 2007 at 4:35 pm
Tom….Any chance that BB moves up and tries to grab Willis if he’s available in the mid-teens?
Steelers indicate they may want to trade down……possible scenario could be our 24,28,and 91 for Steelers 15 and 46 pick…Pats get a top LB and also move up into second round for their next pick………
Go Pats !
April 25, 2007 at 4:48 pm
Not too bad guys, I’m impressed with the choices and reasons for them, overall.
Beason I agree with 100%, from there I would go with Griffin at #28, he has the ability to be an excellent FS in the Pats scheme, but Gattis in the 3rd is the next best thing.
And I’d rather see Reggie Lewis over Coe, Lewis is still somewhat raw as he is a convert from WR to CB, but that is what is so nice about him, he would make an excellent nic or dime, emergency WR, and kick returner… he’s one of those guys you look to take a chance on during day2. He’s my Troy Brown (underdog that proves he can do so many things well if given the chance) of this year’s draft.
Still, excellent choices, you stayed away from all the dirt-bags and glamor boys and went for the hardcore football players on day1, and those are the picks that really count.
April 25, 2007 at 4:48 pm
An Oregon Patriot fan here…..I’m considering ordering Patriot Football Weekly since this is going to be a Superbowl year for our squad…..although I would assume most of you are a tad bit biased, any thoughts/opinions about the periodical? Can I basically get the same info form the website? Tom, you’re the man, I thoroughly enjoy your weekly insight.
April 25, 2007 at 4:54 pm
matt! you guys have been keeping me entertained over here in england. with no nfl coverage or programmes over here the internet is my source of american football. we play at school and you should be seeing me ISMAR BADZIC corner back/reciever PHENOMENAL. lol. nice draft but i reckon itll be beason and ross or nelson. i hope so. just wondering, its probabaly a no hoper but is there any chance you know anywhere i can get information on the net on tackling as my tackling game is shocking. shouldnt need it if i intercept every ball though! keep it up lads!
April 25, 2007 at 5:39 pm
Casale for President….
what do you think of Eric Weddle if he is available in the third round. I have seen Josh Gattis play a couple of times on TV; do you think he is that much better than Weddle?
April 25, 2007 at 5:57 pm
Do you think Paul Posluszny - LB - Penn St. is off the board at #24? He seems like a Patriot type.
I wouldn’t be surprixed to see the Pats trade one of their 1st picks either but with how agressive they’ve been in FA, I might think they go for the gusto.
I could see the Pats taking O-lineman Joe Staley if he should be available at 24/28.
April 25, 2007 at 6:28 pm
No offensive lineman to be added for depth?
I also think woodley would be an ideal mcginest type replacement.
April 25, 2007 at 6:31 pm
Great work on the choices here. It will be interesting whichever way the Pats decide to go.
Number 1 needs in my mind across all picks are:
ILB – Inside more than out with both Thomas and Colvin as starters
S – We have a solid crew in Harrison, Wilson, Sanders etc., but injuries and depth are a problem
CB – Though with James, Gay, Hobbs, and Scott, even minus Samuel, you’re in pretty good shape; a shut-down corner in Round 1 would be nice
NT – A sold back-up to Wilfork who might also swap in for run situations in 4/3 alignments; (Marquise Hill is still taking up a D-Line position on the roster why?!
Number 1A needs:
WR – Less of a need with who we’ve acquired
RB – A change-of-pace successor to Faulk, who’s been great for so long; Morris is serviceable but less than ideal
P – Given 2 NFL Europe punters, Miller, and Sauerbrun leaving, let’s get a sure-fire, top player at his position with a Round 6 pick.
Following the Patriots draft under the Belichick/Pioli regime is so much fun. They have made more of late round picks than any team (Givens, Brady). Also, you never know what position they will draft with the top picks, whether they’re trade up or down. Last year was brilliant because in one draft, they got a top one or two prospect at 3 positions in Maroney, Gostowki and Jackson. While Jackson hasn’t quite panned out to date, you can’t argue with their decision given the consensus on him at draft time.
April 25, 2007 at 6:37 pm
Hey Sawyer….or whatever you are glossing yourself this week…would you send me Betty Anne’s number again?
Casale, I like your previous mock draft over this one. I know youe are big on Woodley, as am I, but would they really take two LB’s in the first round?
And no, Steve Breaston is not a bum and would be good value in the 6th round. Who is a bum? Anyone coming out of Iowa State “University”. Friggin pig farmers….Go Hawkeyes.
April 25, 2007 at 6:44 pm
Thanks for all the replies and I’ll try to answer as many questions as possible.
I don’t dislike McCauley, I just don’t think he’s worthy of a first round pick. Also, I believe he’s better suited to play safety because of his physical style and lack of instincts at cornerback. I think McCauley is a good athlete and Belichick could find a place for him but someone like Daymeion Hughes from Cal is a much more instinctive corner in my opinion. I probably don’t like McCauley as much as you do but if the Pats traded down into the second round and took him, I wouldn’t complain.
I don’t think Willis is going to get to 15 but if he does, that’s where I would move up to get him. The Benglas at 18 would obviously be foaming at the mouth to get Willis, so the Pats would need to get in front of them and 15 seems like the logical spot. However, I would be shocked if the 49ers, Bills, Rams and Panthers all passed on the best ILB in the draft.
I wouldn’t be surprised at all if the Patriots took a tackle at any point in the draft. If they take one late, a player to keep an eye on is Fresno State’s Chris Denman. Again, I’m never shocked when the Patriots draft offensive or defensive linemen at any point in the draft because Bill Belichick likes to stockpile players at those positions.
I like Spencer and think he would be a good fit here. However, I like Woodley more. I’m a huge Woodley and Ted Ginn guy. I’m very high on both of those players, so that’s why I chose Woodley over Spencer but Spencer is certainly a possibility for the Patriots at 28 as well.
Sorry, I don’t have the information regarding how many players the Patriots worked out before they drafted them. However, I will say I’m not big on “smokescreens.” I think Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli are way too busy to take the time to work out players they have no interest in. If they schedule a player to come to Gillette Stadium for a visit, I have to believe they have some interest in him.
I don’t mind Weddle. I’m not as high on him as some other people and I don’t think he should be drafted in Round 1, but he’s a solid second round pick. I don’t think Weddle will be there for the Patriots in the third round so if they take him, it will likely be in Round 2 after a trade down.
I’m luke warm on Posluszny. I think he’ll be a decent pro player but not the dominant force he was in college. I would pass on Posluszny in the first round personally but I wouldn’t be shocked if the Patriots drafted him.
Thanks for all the replies. I enjoy reading them and I’ll try to keep up with answering questions until Saturday, when I won’t have much time to do anything but post my complaints on the Raiders passing on Calvin Johnson. Take care.
April 25, 2007 at 6:52 pm
1/24: Texas Boyz Griffin or Ross
1/28: David Harris(no doubt) or trade pick both picks to Steelers for their #15 pick and draft Willis b/c the Bills need a DT like Okaye.
For the later rounds it’s anyones guess.. .Players I like include Jon Abbate and Gattis from WF and Ryne Robinson from Miami U that guy’s the shiyit.
Thoughts???
April 25, 2007 at 6:53 pm
Ammendment to previous comment…
I meant to write trade #24 and #28 for #15 pick AND Alan Faneca.
TY
April 25, 2007 at 7:01 pm
Tom another player everyone seems to agree on is Wilis. I just read the numbers chart and it would seem to move up to 11. Most sites have Willis going at 12 it would cost the Pats 24 + 28 and a 4th rounder or possibly a 3 or 4 in next year’s draft and they’d get SF’s picks in rounds 1 and 2. Do you think this is too much to land a stud like Willis. I’ve read where S.F is looking to stockpile draft choices.
April 25, 2007 at 7:10 pm
Joey,
It depends on how badly they want Willis and how good they think he can become. Personally, I wouldn’t make the deal and I love Willis. I just think that’s too much to give up for one player not named Calvin Johnson. I think if Willis gets past Buffalo, then things may start to get interesting.
April 25, 2007 at 7:15 pm
So Tom, Would it be out of the question to ship both firsties and both thirds to the Steel show for Faneca, the fifteenth and 46th. Have the Pats shown any interest in this vet guard?
April 25, 2007 at 7:19 pm
I don’t see them trading for Faneca. The Patriots are pretty set at the guard position and Faneca is getting long in the tooth. If the Patriots upgrade the offensive line, I would have to believe it would be at tackle. I just don’t see that trade making much sense for the Pats if Faneca is involved, although I could see them moving up to 15 to get Willis.
April 25, 2007 at 7:27 pm
Tom your probably correct in that this draft is deep and the 4th round pick could be pretty good not to mention what you’d lose from dropping from 28 to 43. I just think Willis could be special and I know you agree. I’d prefer to give up a 3 in next years draft than a 4 in this year’s draft. I’ve read from a few people next year’s draft is not considered to that deep and is fairly top heavy.
April 25, 2007 at 7:33 pm
We don’t really know what BB and SP will do. With 2 picks anything can happen. Every year I belive since BB, they have shocked us. Logan Mankins. The TE in rd1. Bethel Johnson in 2 I believe. Man, thats why I love being a Patriots fan! We just need to sit back and enjoy. BB and SP will find the right players for the TEAM! Whether they reach for the right player we never know. Tom, love your picks. I don’t see alot of if they trade rumors. Do you have a few scenerios in mind? Thanks and Rhank You for all of your info at Patriots.com. I couldn’t live without.
April 25, 2007 at 7:39 pm
Joey,
I don’t like “rating” drafts but if a lot of juniors come out next year, it will be pretty strong. You have players like Darren McFadden, Ray Rice, Steve Slaton. DeSean Jackson and James Laurinaitis heading a strong junior class. I think it’s always too early to grade next year’s draft and I use former Tennessee CB Dwayne Goodrich as an example. After shutting down Peter Warrick in the National Championship Game, Mel Kiper had Goodrich rated as a top 5 pick entering his senior season. However, Goodrich struggled as a senior, was drafted in the second round by Dallas (Which means no other team would have touched him until Round 3), played a couple of disappointing seasons in the NFL and is now in jail for manslaughter. Not exactley the resume of a guy rated as a top 5 prospect. Trying to figure out this draft is hard enough, so let’s not start breaking down Tom Zbikowski for a few more months.
April 25, 2007 at 7:44 pm
Tom to use your mock draft and you could use any player you wanted at 43 I’ll just use McCauley, because I like him or you can substitute a player. The key question is what do you like more Beason, Woodley, and Coe for Willis and McCauley or a player you like more at 43 or Beason and Woodley for Wilis and McCauley (same stipulation as before and a 3rd next year). It comes down to what do you think would be better for the Pats. I’m torn, because Willis is just a great football player. I know you agree, but, Beason, Woodley and Coe or a 3 next year could be a better package. I tend to agree with you that the latter is better, but, I can’t help but think Willis could be a pro-bowler at MLB for many years to cone and this yeat he’d get to learn from one of the ILB’s to put on a Pats uniform in Tedy Bruschi.
April 25, 2007 at 7:46 pm
George,
Teams are always trying to trade back into the late-first round, especially for quarterbacks. Say the Raiders or Browns pass on a QB and are targeting Drew Stanton or John Beck. There’s always a chance a team will want to trade back into the first round to grab the quarterback they like. If the Raiders or Browns pass on a QB, that could be good news for the Patriots if they are looking to trade down.
Joey,
Any scenario that allows the Patriots to grab Willis at 15 or lower I’m all for. I just think it’s a moot point because I seriously doubt he’ll be on the board at that point.
April 25, 2007 at 7:51 pm
Hey, that’s a good Mock Draft, but why don’t the Pats. try a trade up to the 6th spot which I’ve heard rumors of? Why not try to trade Samuel (with the contract problem) and maybe the 28th pick to the ‘Skins for the 6th overall? Then we could get the great LB we need, and then at 24, get a CB?
April 25, 2007 at 7:52 pm
I remember you guys were very high on Oliver Hoyte last year… though he didnt turn out to be linbacker in the NFL he was a very useful contributor to the Cowboys on the field(more than you can say about their first round pick)… and you definitely deserve the credit for identifying him as a player who was worth a late round pick…
Any players this year who you think fits in the same mould as Oliver Hoyte??
April 25, 2007 at 8:01 pm
Ethan,
I don’t see any way the Patriots trade Samuel or move up that high in the draft. It would just cost them too much all the way around.
Deepak,
We loved Hoyte because of how vicious he was at the point of attack. We thought he would be a nice sixth round selection but obviously the 32 NFL teams didn’t agree. However, Hoyte continued his physical play and violent collisions in the pros, it was just at FB and not LB. We take a lot of heat for that but we never claimed he was going in the second round. Hoyte was a linebacker we loved who we thought would be a good selection late in the draft.
This year keep an eye on Desmond Bishop from Cal. I put him in our mock draft. The Patriots really like him and he was extremely productive at Cal. He’s projected to go in the sixth round area, and with the Patriots currently holding four selections in that round, Bishop could be a possibility.
Also, we are still hoping the Cowboys cut Hoyte and the Patriots pick him up. We just can’t let it go.
April 25, 2007 at 8:33 pm
hey tom, what about anthony gonzalez? would pats consider a trade down for him? he looks great for the pats but we seem full at wideout. also which linebacker do you REALISTICALY think pats will go with and will be on the board at that point? also, will we get any late round steals. players that will be amazing but have been overlooked?
road to the superbowl starts HERE
much appreciate a reply. thanks
April 25, 2007 at 8:41 pm
Tom I agree that’s why the only possibilty I see is making the deal with the 49ers. Acording to most mock drafts and they aren’t always accurate, but, are generally reasonably close. They have Willis going at 12 to the Bills or14 to Carolina. I’d love to see him slide past that, but, I doubt that will happen. If he did slide to 15 or lower then the pacage drops to a more reasonable level and we both agree that won’t happen. I think there are 3 superstars in this draft in order and in order Johnson Landry Peterson. Willis while not at those guys level is close and I can’t see Buffalo not taking him. That’s why I looked at SF’s pick. The only thing we can hope for is for the Bills to pull a Dallas and they are no strangers in doing that. Losman is a good example.
April 25, 2007 at 8:43 pm
We all know PFW rated David Harris as a good prospect, what are the chances for him to be there at no.24. I think Aaron Ross is a constant name in most of the mock drafts, will he be available? Other than willis, which other player you think might call which warrant Patriots to go up? will Pats go up to pick a WR like Meachem or Ted Ginn? Will Pats go up to pick up leon hall or chris houston? or will pats trade up to get nelson or griffin? I think safety is a primary need and there are too many folks around in the third round as well. what is your opinion on trading up for a specific player?
April 25, 2007 at 8:44 pm
Izzy,
I think Gonzalez is overrated. He will most likely have a decent NFL career because he’s intelligent and works hard but the fact that people are talking about him as a first round pick has me stunned. I would take a guy like Jason Hill or Sidney Rice in Round 2 over Gonzalez any day.
There are a number of linebacking options the Patriots could go with but the top three early on in the draft are probably Jon Beason, David Harris and Brandon Siler.
I’m sure the Pats will get a late-round steal, they always do. I like Desmond Bishop and Ryne Robinson and if you read my mock draft above, you’ll see my reasoning. Belichick and Pioli always do an excellent job of finding gems later on in the draft and I don’t think this year will be any different.
April 25, 2007 at 8:44 pm
What are the good left tackles available this year? Are there any around the area we are? What is the deal with that center named Kalil?
April 25, 2007 at 8:55 pm
Tom, is Brandon Siler a Patriots type player? I watched the Gators all year and believe he will be. Your thoughts and will they reach for him? in rd1?
April 25, 2007 at 8:56 pm
Oh and Reggie Nelson, I seen him out of postion sometimes. Is he rated to high?
April 25, 2007 at 9:02 pm
I have been following draft closer since last year. I saw that lot of defensive players were ranked so higher last year and same is the case this year.
we saw more teams picking defense players in the first round and after the first year when we look back the offense players contributed better than defense players.
mario, Hawk,huff,Whitner,Sims,ngata,Wimbley,Bunkley,hill,Jason Allen, greenway, lawson,carpenter,were picked in the first round and none of them contributed big, half of their names are forgotten. Everyone wanted patriots to pick carpenter but he didnt play well.
In contast, Offensive players picked by other teams contributed to wins by being a contributing starters. Three of the four conference finalists(IND,NE and NO picked offense and CHI didnt have a first round pick).
If that is the case, why do always mock drafts and all teams go with more defense picks than offense picks.
Even this year in all the mock drafts I see lot of defense players being picked over offense, I somehow sense that Patriots are going to pick one offense and one defense player in the draft.
April 25, 2007 at 9:06 pm
Three teams with the cap space to sign Samuel are Houston (10), San Francisco (11) and Tennessee (19). I believe Green Bay at 16 has the cap space also. In terms of $$$ value to sign a rookie at these draft positions, would it be reasonable to think the Pats would consider trading into one of these positions? I don’t think you necessarily need to address what they might do with picks 24 and 28 if they did this. I am just curious as to whether any of those slots would provide value if they were to lose Samuel.
I definetly prefer that the Pats and Samuel come to terms on a contract but we have to do something here over the next 3-1/2 days.
April 25, 2007 at 9:24 pm
Tom, this is great stuff. However, I’m in agreement with Ethan. In my opinion, the Pat’s don’t want to risk another D Branch situation with Asante Samuel. Meanwhile the Redskins want him badly (from what’s being floated) and would trade the #6 pick in the Draft for Asante. So here’s where I differ - if this deal could be done straight up I would. If that were to happen, I would then trade the #6 and the #24 (along with our 6 Rd #202 pick) to San Francisco for Rd 1 #11 this year, Rd 2 #10 this year and SF’s #1 next year. This would allow the following to take place:
1.) Pat’s take Patrick Willis at Rd 1 #6.
2.) Pat’s take Michael Griffin or Reggie Nelson at Rd 1 #28
3.) Pat’s take LaMarr Woodley at Rd 2 #10.
4.) Pat’s would have two (2) 1st rounders next year.
5.) The move of Eugene Wilson from S back to CB.
April 25, 2007 at 9:34 pm
I thought Beason was a “smokescreen” by the Patriots. He didn’t rise up the board until Patriots talked about him. The copycats then started giving him notice. Isn’t this like Belichick to talk up someone he isn’t going to take?
April 25, 2007 at 10:17 pm
Do you think BB targets a RB ? If so, in day one…..or does he wait until pick 127 or 171 ?
If they are high on Brandon Jackson/Nebraska, he might be a possibility in Rd 3 ..or is that too early….everyone knows BB has his own set of values so throw alot of the media hype out the window….
Other names I’ve seen tossed around are Bush,Hunt and Walker…any preferences and which others may be possibilities….
Thanks for the info. Keep up the great work!
April 25, 2007 at 10:39 pm
Tom while this what you said all sounds good. I still believe something can be worked out here with Samuel and I also don’t think he’ll sit out 10 games simply because it will cost a little over 6.4 million. I think I read sonewhere that by the time all the fines are paid he’d get 1.34 million instead of 7.78. It’s not an ideal situation for him or the team, but, I beleieve he’ll be with the team to start the season. If they were to move up to 6 in your scenario. The better pick is Landry. That way you get the best S in the draft. At 28 you could take Beason or Woodley an or Ross and then you could take the best CB at 61 possibly McCauley, Hughes, Wade or Jackson. If they chose Ross at 28 they could take Harris or Durant or either Beason or Posluszny if they fell.
April 25, 2007 at 10:43 pm
Tom B, thats fantasy land kind of stuff, while its fun to debate such a lopsided trade occuring, its very unlikely it would ever occur.
TomCasale, I agree with what someone else on here wrote… this is a very well thought out mock, except it didn’t include the almost mandatory O-lineman pick. With two WRs in your mock, and considering all the FAs they acquired this offseason, it would be better balanced if you knocked Chris Davis out of the 5th, and put in his place someone like Dan Santucci OG ND instead. You’d still have Robinson, who I like in the 6th.
April 25, 2007 at 10:45 pm
I don’t see the Pats trading Samuel this year. Either he’ll play under the franchise contract or we’ll see a long term deal get done. The Pats can reapply the franchise tag again next season and then trade him at or before the draft. This gives them time to find and groom a replacement (Ross or Merriwether - who can play corner) . Also I can’t see Samuel sitting out any regular season games because it will just cost him too much money in missed pay cheques.
April 25, 2007 at 10:56 pm
Tom, I know that you are really high on Beason but do you think that Timmons is a better fit for the Pats? He has a larger frame and should be able to get up close to 250 lbs.
April 25, 2007 at 10:59 pm
Everything you guys say is true. It’s possible the team could trade Samuel, it’s just my own personal opinion that they won’t. And as I said, I won’t be shocked if the Pats take an offensive lineman at any point in the draft. It’s hard when you do a mock draft because there are 50 players you want to include when you’re doing it.
I don’t think Beason is a smokescreen. I thought he might be at first but the team has invested way too much time with him. I think Belichick is more worried about finding good football players than screwing with other teams. He only really cares about his team. Like I said earlier, I think the smokescreen thing is overrated and Mike Mayock actually had Beason listed as a first round pick early on in the draft process.
I think Siler would be a great fit in the Patriots defense. He’s an active run-stuffing inside linebacker. If New England trades down into Round 2, Siler a definate possibility.
Timmons and Beason are two different type of players. Beason is more of an all-around player, where Timmons is a pass rusher. I actually love Timmons. He’s one of the pure outside linebackers who I think can line up in the 3-4 and rush the passer from the edge. Timmons would play outside in the Patriots defense, while Beason would play inside. However, Timmons would be an excellent selection should the Patriots decide to go in that direction.
Make sure you check back tomorrow morning, we have some good rumors we’ll be posting and thanks for all the feedback.
April 26, 2007 at 2:09 am
The Pats Should go after a LB at 24, I like Beason and Harris, either one would fit well.
Im really sold on Michael Griffin out of Texas especially if he is availble at 28. I think that running back should be a focus because if Maroney goes down the pats are screwed. The dual back system would be the solution here, Kenny Irons maybe.
April 26, 2007 at 2:37 am
Great stuff. Very imformative. Keep up the good work! Do you think the Pats will draft a punter or a quarterback in the late rounds? Any thoughts on Safety Daren Stone (Maine)?
April 26, 2007 at 3:00 am
Karthik,
I just read your post about defensive players and it’s incorrect. Most of those players you mentioned had good-to-very good rookie seasons. First, let’s take away Greenway because he was injured and never played.
Wimbley, Lawson, Ngata, Tye Hill and A.J. Hawk all had very strong rookie seasons. It’s harder to judge defensive players because they don’t score touchdowns but Wimbley, Lawson and Ngata had just as good, if not better, first years than Maroney did. The only guy on the list that didn’t play well at all is Jason Allen.
Also, it was only one season. You can’t defend Chad Jackson but saying he can’t be judged on one season and then go do the same to other players. Huff, Sims and Carpenter all started to show flashes at the end of last year. And I’ll bet you anything with Wade Phillips in Dallas, Carpenter blows up this year.
It’s hard to measure what guys like Ngata mean to their team because he’s taking up blockers so players like Ray Lewis and Bart Scott can run free and make plays. I think your theory that the defensive players last year were all busts is wrong. A lot of those guys started from day 1 and not only had solid seasons, they’ll be even better in 2007. Trust me, drafting offensive players is just as risky. Ask Ryan Leaf, Ki-Jana Carter, Curtis Enis, Blair Thomas, Akili Smith, Mike Williams, Charles Rogers, Robert Gallery, William Green, etc.
April 26, 2007 at 4:28 am
What do you guys think of Dwayne Jarrett? He has been consistnet in college, but is he too slow? How far do you think he will fall? Also I would really like to see Griffin, Woodley, or Harris in a patriots uniform. Does Harris have any injury problems?
April 26, 2007 at 10:17 am
Like the first 2 picks. Why not get all 3. Harris first, I think Beason will still be there at 28, then trade up in the second round for Woodley.
Also love Justise Hairston. Seen him play, since High School.
April 26, 2007 at 10:23 am
Hi Tom I was reading last night about a couple of late round RT that could be decent picks in the 6th or 7th rounds and I don’t remember you writing about them. I don’t remember you doing a preview on tackles which makes sence since it’s unlikely the Pats will draft one, but, I was reading some nice things about these 2 players and was wondering what your opinion of them were if they were to be selected late. Both are considered to be projects with upside according to what I read last night. The players I’m refering to are Chase Johnson of Wyoming and Jermon Bushrod of Towson.
April 26, 2007 at 11:35 am
The rumor I keep hearing is a trade between Detroit and Tampa, but, I can’t believe Tampa would give up a 2 and a 3 just to move up 2 spots. Johnson is great, but, that’s still a steep price to pay for a great W.R when your team is not that strong. Although when dealing with the NFX means nothing as noone is strong. The other intersting rumor I’ve heard is the Raiders might pass on Russell and draft Johnson. I haven’t heard much regarding the Pats which is good.
April 26, 2007 at 12:04 pm
hi i am a transplanted pats fan i live in hicks ville GA where most people dont even know what the NFL is so pats. com is my only real source of info. i would like to say i love the woodly pick i think he could learn a lot from colvin and thomas and become a even bigger beast. i would like to know your thought on the pats getting deossie i think he could be amazing at ilb. thanks
April 26, 2007 at 12:55 pm
Karthik, i just saw an article on the Boston Herald website under sports / Patriots that talks a bit about past drafts and some of the prospects hosted from the first two rounds dating back to I believe 2000. It says 14 players selcted in the first 2 rounds since 2000, 8 have come to town for predraft visits and 6 have not.
http://patriots.bostonherald.com/patriots/view.bg?articleid=196863
On another note, i just want to say i listen to the weekly podcasts when i get home from work and you guys are hilarious. They helped me get ready for the draft big-time. Tom, do you know of any websites that do a streaming video of the draftt on draft day? i dont have cable tv at the moment and was hoping to watch the first round at least. any help would be greatefully appreciated.
April 26, 2007 at 1:18 pm
I forgot about Micheal Bush, i dont recall anyone here asking but what are your thoughts on the Patriots possibly picking him in the 3rd or 4th round? Ive read quite a few articles that seem to think he will be quite productive in the nfl after making a full recovery by training camp time.
April 26, 2007 at 1:34 pm
Jonathan,
I don’t really like Bush. I think he plays much smaller than is and that bothers me when projecting big backs to the pro level. Here is what I had to say about him in my breakdowns of running backs:
http://www.patriots.com/search/index.cfm?ac=searchdetail&pid=24912&pcid=46&special_section=draft2007
April 26, 2007 at 1:46 pm
Thanks Jonathan for pointing me to that article. Wow so Patriots did maintain low key on some of the players they want to make. this year they hosted a lot of prospects who were picked in mock drafts. I think they might pick aaron ross and lawrence timmons
April 26, 2007 at 1:47 pm
Tom,
How interested are the Pats with Stanbeck, QB, Washington?
I was never too impressed with him at UW and he needs a haircut. At what round would they consider drafting him, if they do at all?
April 26, 2007 at 1:54 pm
Shannon,
I think Belichick is very interested in getting a slash-type of player to use in his offense. I asked him about Brad Smith last year and he said, “A guy like is very dangerous because he may only make one play in the game but that one play could result in a touchdown.” If they take Stanback, expect him to be a jack-of-all-trades kind of player, not a quarterback.
April 26, 2007 at 2:04 pm
Tom you didn’t answer my question about a couple of tackles that might be available in the latter rounds. I think they could draft 1 late. The 2 I was most impressed with in reading about them were Chase Johnson of Wyoming and Jermon Bushrod of Towson.
April 26, 2007 at 4:03 pm
Tom, let me try another more realistic scenario today. My far-fetched trade proposition yesterday was obviously too out there. That said, Patrick Willis would still be my primary target. He’s that good - in my opinion. I think the dropoff at ILB after him is great, as compared to the dropoff at S and OLB. I also think that S’s and OLB’s are easier to find generally than a young ILB that can be groomed into the Pat’s system.
Ok, moving away from that, how about taking a flyer on Jeff Smardzija (WR-Notre Dame) with one of those 6th round picks. The upside if the baseball thing doesn’t cut it for him is obvious.
Another possibility would be Daniel Sepulveda (Punter-Baylor). Again, using one of those 6th round picks might bring nice upside value at this position.
April 26, 2007 at 5:30 pm
Is Pat Kirwan retarted? He still has the Patriots taking Ryan Kalil from USC with the 28th pick. I thought we just locked up Koppen. Does anybody actually agree with Kirwan?
April 26, 2007 at 5:47 pm
Joey,
I mentioned Chris Denman from Fresno State as a possible late-round tackle.
Tom,
It wouldn’t make sense to draft Smardzija. The Patriots would only own his rights for one year and with the contract he just signed, he’s not going to play baseball for only one year. Sepulveda would make much more sense and if he’s there in Round 6, I think the Pats will take him.
Nick,
The answer to your first question is yes.
April 26, 2007 at 7:03 pm
I think if they draft an OL it’ll be late and a project type. I think they’ll go LB DB or DB LB depending on who’s been picked.
April 27, 2007 at 9:14 am
Tom, where do we stand with the rumor about trading our second 1st round pick, plus Asante Samuel to Washington for the #6 pick, austensibly to get LaRon Landry? Any more noise in this area? Washington seems anxious to trade out of the #6, so, wouldn’t this be a value proposition for both teams?
April 27, 2007 at 9:20 am
I don’t think it’s going to happen Phil. The Skins appear to be more interested in Briggs and with all the good safety prospects available, I’m not sure the Pats would give up that much to get Landry, even though he’s a stud. However, anything can happen with the Redskins because they seem to make decisions on the fly.
April 27, 2007 at 10:47 am
Tom, where do you stand on the Pats’ punting needs? It seems to me this is really being overlooked in mock drafts that I’ve seen.
April 27, 2007 at 1:22 pm
Is David Ball expected to be around on the second day? Couldn’t he be a possible pick by the Patriots.
April 27, 2007 at 2:01 pm
David Ball should be available in Round 6 if the Patriots are interested in him. He’s not projected as a first day pick.
April 27, 2007 at 10:02 pm
Hey Tom, remember how you were saying that Tory James will get beat on most plays?? well have a look at this overtime game V.S the Steelers, end of 2006.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tUObYW-x0Ro
April 27, 2007 at 10:05 pm
Jan,
I never said that James doesn’t make big plays, I just said he gives up a lot too, especially last year. However, as a third corner James is a good signing.
April 27, 2007 at 10:13 pm
Tom,
I wont be able to listen live on draft day tommorow, as it would be around 5am over here, and ive got a pre-season gridiron game that morning, but i was wondering what do u think of a guy out of NIU by the last name of Wolfe as a 4th of 5th round pick???
He is small but do you think he can produce in the NFL???
P.s Our team over here is in touch with the NIU boys thats how i know him!
April 27, 2007 at 10:20 pm
Garrett Wolfe is tiny and I mean tiny. However, he did have some of his best games against tough competition. Because of his size, he’ll be nothing more than a third down back in the NFL but he may be worth a sixth round pick. He’s just so small that you can’t say he can overcome his size and because of that his upside is limited.
April 27, 2007 at 11:24 pm
Hey Tom,
If you are still up, I’m really interested to hear what you have to say about NIU. Are they a top college team or not? Because my coach will obviously say that they are because he has connections.
P.s Would you know if this is true, an old coach that coached our team back in the 80’s early 90’s said that Jets Head coach Eric Mangini came down to Australia and coached a gridiron team for one season. Just whanted to know if you guys knew anything about that.
April 27, 2007 at 11:34 pm
NIU has a solid football program for a MAC team. They contend nearly every season and have some good players who move on to the NFL. They’re not a top college team but one of those teams that sneaks into a minor bowl sometimes.
I have no idea if the Mangini thing is true. I never heard that before.
April 27, 2007 at 11:42 pm
Hey Tom
Sorry if I’m bothering you, is it 11.40pm over there?
And about Mangini coaching over here, I just did some research and found out that he came over here to Australia to study, and while studying he coached the Kew Colts in Melbourne for two years (were I’m playing) and both years he lead the team to victory in the championship games.
Goodnight and looking forward to hearing the pod cast tomorrow on the PAT’s new drafted players.