New England Patriots

  • Conference: AFC
  • Division: East
  • Defense: 3-4

Team Needs

Team Needs:   OLB   ILB   WR   TE   DE   CB   RB  
The Skinny: The Patriots needs might as well be listed as a series of question marks…that's about as close as we'll come to predicting what Bill Belichick will do come April. We know there's a method to his madness, though, and that's all that matters to Patriot fans. On the surface, it would appear that the Pats could use a true pass-rushing stand up outside LB in the mold of DeMarcus Ware. Tully Banta-Cain did a serviceable job there in his 18th stint with the team, but he doesn't appear to be the long term future, and Adalius Thomas on the other side is a good bet to get released this off-season. It's time to look for someone on the inside to play alongside up and comer Jerod Mayo, as well. I don't think Junior Seau has another season left in him. And it wouldn't be a complete shock to see the Patriots cut ties with Randy Moss this offseason. Moss appears to be fading both physically and mentally, and if the Pats can line up a big target in the draft, who knows?
4/15 Update: NE lost a couple of TEs - Chris Baker and longtime Patriot Benjamin Watson. They also lost starting DE Jarvis Green, signing Damione Lewis formerly of the Panthers to take his spot.

Mock Draft

1 -22. DE Brandon Graham, Michigan
The Skinny: New England has always had an eye for talent, and Brandon Graham has the ability to turn into one the league's top pass rushing rushing linebackers in a 3-4 defense.

2 -12. RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech
The Skinny: Tight end or receiver could be an option here, but the Pats can't pass on the value of Dwyer.

2 -15. TE Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma
The Skinny: New England has picks to burn in the second round. They are one of the few teams that can afford to take a shot at Jermaine Gresham without too much worry.

2 -21. ILB Sean Lee, Penn St.
The Skinny: Lee proved he was back from a knee injury that cost him the entire 2008 season at Penn State. He had a solid combine and his footwork looked excellent. A good character guy and potential leader at the linebacker spot.