New England Patriots: Ranking the Top 5 Positional Draft Needs

The New England Patriots coaching staff and scouting department are surely in full-on draft mode. They’re likely aiming to address these five positions in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The New England Patriots have about a week left to prepare for the 2017 NFL Draft. Their draft board of 50-75 players is likely near completion, and now the fun begins for us fans.

Bill Belichick and the Patriots do not have a pick until round three, but now that Malcolm Butler has signed his tender a trade could be nearing. The Saints are still a favorite to trade for Butler and some believe they will send the 32nd pick back to Foxboro for him. In that scenario it becomes a Butler for Brandin Cooks trade essentially.

Surely New England would love to jump up into the first or second round, but this year’s draft is deep. The Patriots will be able to find talented depth players in later rounds of the draft next week.

These are the five positions that New England is likely focusing on. Look for them to add one or two players from these spots on the field.

5. Running Back

The New England Patriots, for now, are still missing a power back. The team has Rex Burkhead, James White, Dion Lewis and Brandon Bolden all on the roster. Mike Gillislee could also be on the way soon after the Patriots extended him an offer sheet.

Bill Belichick and his staff may still look to add a running back in the draft. The future is unknown for Burkhead, Lewis, and Bolden as only James White is under contract for multiple seasons. The team will likely look to add a big back.

Possible Targets: D’Onta Foreman (Texas), Brian Hill (Wyoming), James Conner (Pitt)

4. Linebacker

The Patriots re-signed Dont’a Hightower this offseason which was huge. His health is a concern though as detailed by his new contract. New England can add some depth and Hightower insurance through this year’s draft.

There are plenty of players that fit Belichick’s mold for a linebacker. I’d expect one to be taken in the fourth or fifth round.

Possible Targets: Tyus Bowser (Houston), Alex Anzalone (Florida), Ben Boulware (Clemson)

3. Offensive Line

I personally believe that the offensive line is a position of need each and every year. While the Patriots do not have any glaring holes, they will likely look for depth and versatility. A player who can play guard or tackle, or a player that can play on both sides of the line is always of value to Bill Belichick.

Possible Targets: Ryan Ramcyzk (Wisconsin), Julie’n Dvenport (Bucknell), Isaac Asiata (Utah)

2. Cornerback

Corners are a hot topic in the NFL. New England signed Stephon Gilmore this offseason and they may or may not have Malcolm Butler on the roster when the year begins. Logan Ryan bolted for Tennessee, leaving Eric Rowe as the next man up. The Patriots could look to add a player that maybe needs a bit more work to make it at the NFL level. Matt Patricia and Bill Belichick could then work with a player’s raw talent.

The Patriots could look to add a player that maybe needs a bit more work to make it at the NFL level. Matt Patricia and Bill Belichick could then work with a player’s raw talent.

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Possible Targets: Cameron Sutton (Tennessee), Rasul Douglas (West Virginia), Shaquill Griffin (Central Florida)

1. Defensive End

The pass rush is the clear number one need for New England.

There are diamonds in the rough deep in the draft, so the Patriots can afford to wait on this one. Florida State’s DeMarcus Walker has seen his draft stock slide, and he could be available when the Patriots make their first pick in the 2017 NFL Draft.

Beyond that, there are still solid pass rushers that can be found in the later rounds.

Possible Targets: DeMarcus Walker (Florida State), Tim Williams (Alabama), Josh Carraway (TCU)

There are plenty of options for the Patriots to meet their top five draft needs next week. They could also explore other options, like a new tight end in Jake Butt or an athlete like Jabril Peppers.

Next: Could Butler Be on His Way Out Now That Tender is Signed?

No matter what direction he chooses to go, In Bill We Trust.

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