New England Patriots Mock Draft Update: March 12th

Round 5, Pick 163: Dalvin Tomlinson, DT, Alabama

The Patriots can add more defensive line help, from another Alabama Crimson Tide player.

Dalvin Tomlinson is 6’3″, 310lbs defensive tackle. He has overcome ACL tears on both legs, and the death of both parents. Tomlinson was used up the middle and on the edge by Alabama’s Nick Saban. His senior season was his best as he had 62 tackles, 5.5 for a loss, and three sacks.

Tomlinson wins battles with his power and technique but may be overpowered on the inside.

At Alabama Tomlinson was buried on the depth chart until his senior year. He thinks that he made the most of his opportunities, though.

"“When it was my time to play, I made sure I showed up to the plate,” Tomlinson said. “I did my job as effectively as I could.”"

An excellent run stuffer, he has the ability to break out as an NFL pass rusher as well.

Look for New England to continue adding defensive depth.

Round 5, Pick 183: Shaquill Griffin, CB, Central Florida

At 6’1″ cornerback Shaquill Griffin is quick, with a 4.38 40-yard dash at the combine. Griffin is extremely aggressive in both his run and pass coverage.

Griffin could compete for playing time behind the two starters, Stephon Gilmore and Malcolm Butler.

Logan Ryan’s departure leaves a hole for another defensive back to fill. Eric Rowe is likely the #3 corner, but that’s not set in stone.

Griffin improved his draft stock with his NFL Combine performance, but he’s still projected as a fourth or fifth rounder.

Let’s hope the cornerback falls to the New England Patriots.