New England Patriots: Five 2016 NFL Draft Targets

Oct 25, 2014; Auburn, AL, USA; Auburn Tigers linebacker Kris Frost (17) tackles South Carolina Gamecocks running back Mike Davis (28) during the second quarter at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Shanna Lockwood-USA TODAY Sports

Kris Frost, LB, Auburn, Sr.

6-foot-2, 240 pounds

Projected Round: 5

On the surface, the Patriots are loaded at the linebacker position. Jamie Collins, Dont’a Hightower and Jerod Mayo make up arguably the best starting linebacker trio in the NFL. However, when looking deeper, it is clear the team lacks overall depth at the position. If an injury were to hit any of the starting three (most notably Collins or Hightower), the Patriots’ defense would be in trouble.

Because of this, they need to be looking at the linebacker position in this draft, and Kris Frost feels like a perfect fit.

Frost has struggled to find a permanent position home in college, flipping between the inside and outside with regularity. Some may consider him a tweener prospect, but I see this is a sign of position flexibility and overall versatility.

Frost is a quick and athletic player who has natural play-making skills. He is strong enough to set the edge on the outside, and make plays in the middle in the run game. His athleticism stands out in coverage, as he has the skills to defend many positions successfully.

Frost is a versatile athlete at a position of need. He feels like a player Belichick would target, and have some success with at the next level. Getting depth at LB is key for the Patriots, and Frost would certainly help their case.

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