Thursday, April 26, 2012

Mock Draft: New England Patriots 2012

By: Lily Zhao

It's no question the Patriots need defensive players in this year's NFL draft. The main concerns on defense? Well, it comes down to the secondary, mainly the safety, cornerback and defensive end positions. However, New England also needs someone on special teams and on the offensive line. The Patriots have two picks late in the first round, and here are the potential picks I believe the Patriots should take.

Pick #27: New England needs to go with a defensive guy is versatile and has the skills to rush the passer. Defensive lineman Kendall Reyes from Connecticut is a guy who I think will still be left for the Patriots to snag at this pick. And although he will probably be gone this late into the first round, Alabama lineback Dont'a Hightower is another great prospect on defense. He is one of the best rushing the passer and has the natural strength to run through blocks. He can change direction extremely well and runs well downfield.

Pick #31: Janoris Jenkins out of North Alabama could be another player the Patriots should look out for. Despite his troubled past in Florida, Jenkins is one of the best cover corners in the draft. He might be a risky pick, but many scouts have said Jenkins has put his past behind him. If the Patriots draft him, he could do wonders in the backfield, especially since the Patriots were ranked 31st in pass rush last year.

Wildcard Pick: Brandon Boykin out of Georgia could help the Patriots on special teams, especially kickoff returns. He has the speed to out run most defenders and has the hands to play on defense as well. Look for him, along with offensive lineman Brandon Washington from Miami to get some recognition. The Patriots needs to add depth on the offensive line and Washington adds range. He has the ability to and experience at both guard spots and left tackle and has improved manning the blind side.



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