New England Patriots: The Final Full Seven Round Mock Draft

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Oct 8, 2016; College Station, TX, USA; Tennessee Volunteers defensive end Derek Barnett (9) and Texas A&M Aggies offensive lineman Avery Gennesy (65) in action during the game at Kyle Field. The Aggies defeat the Volunteers 45-38 in overtime. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Round 1, 12th Pick: DE Derek Barnett, Tennessee

Back in the first round, the New England Patriots will address their pass rush need with arguably the best pass rusher in the draft.

Last season Derek Barnett recorded 12 of his 13 sacks against SEC opponents — the lone non-SEC sack was against Nebraska in the Music City Bowl — while Myles Garrett compiled 4.5 of his 8.5 sacks against Texas-San Antonio according to 247 Sports.

Barnett had a private workout with the Patriots a few weeks ago, and perhaps he’s a reason for them to move Garoppolo.

The defensive end recently penned an article for The Players’ Tribune, with a career objective to “win multiple Super Bowl rings”. There is not a better place to do that than New England.

"“Understand that even though I’ve achieved some noteworthy things and won some individual awards, they are not what drives me. I want to lead a defense. I want to be an important part of a winning team. I want to win a Super Bowl.”"

Barnett sounds like the type of player Bill Belichick would love to have. He’d likely be an immediate starter on the Patriots defensive line alongside Kony Ealy.

The New England Patriots can get even richer if they land Barnett, he’ll wreak havoc on the rest of the AFC East and the NFL for years to come. If you don’t think this is a fair trade and that the Patriots should keep Jimmy G., you’re crazy. This is exactly what New England needs to do.

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