New England Patriots mid-season 2018 NFL Mock Draft
6th round pick: CB Kareem Orr, Chattanooga
Kareem Orr was originally at Arizona State, and he played well there as a freshman and sophomore with 91 tackles and 7 interceptions in 22 games. The 5’11” corner then chose to transfer to an FCS program, UT Chattanooga. Orr is originally from Chattanooga, and in August his girlfriend gave birth to their first child. It was important to him to be home for that. The NCAA granted Orr the ability to play right away, and through 8 games with the Mocs he has 31 tackles and 1 interception. He could one day be a Patriots starter when Malcolm Butler leaves town.
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7th round pick: RB Nick Wilson, Arizona
Senior running back Nick Wilson from Arizona is either a 7th rounder or an undrafted free agent. The Patriots will likely have to draft a running back as Dion Lewis, Brandon Bolden, and Rex Burkhead will all be free agents this offseason. Wilson is a guy that could fit the bill as a Lewis replacement.
In 33 games for the Wildcats, Wilson has 2,784 rushing yards on 493 carries for a 5.6-yards per carry average. He’s been able to find the end zone 30 times on the ground as well. He’s not a huge receiving threat for Arizona, but I believe he has the skills to become one. As a University of Arizona student, I may be a bit biased but I think Nick Wilson is the perfect Patriots player. He seems willing to do whatever it takes for the team to succeed.
Next: Mid-season Patriots offensive player grades
So, while it’s still very early, what would you think of this New England Patriots draft class? I feel like this would fill a ton of needs on both the offense and the defense. The pass rush would be greatly improved, and the QB of the future (for real this time) could be on the team with years to develop. Let me know your thoughts on Twitter @CandCFansided!