New England Patriots: Re-picking the 2017 NFL Draft

Round 3, Pick 83: RB Kareem Hunt, Toledo (Chiefs Rd. 3, Pick 86)

Actual Pick: DE Derek Rivers, Youngstown State

The New England Patriots knew that they had to address the pass rush, and they began that process with Derek Rivers from Youngstown State. He was a player from a smaller school, but the Patriots clearly thought that he has the talent to make it in the NFL. He might, but New England could have wound up with an electric playmaker.

Running back Kareem Hunt was selected just 3 spots later by the Kansas City Chiefs, and he had an incredible rookie season. He was selected to the Pro Bowl with 1,327 yards and 8 touchdowns. Hunt also added 3 receiving touchdowns as well. In week 1, the Patriots found out exactly who Kareem Hunt was as he exploded onto the scene with 148 rushing yards, 98 receiving yards, and 3 total touchdowns.

Hunt looks like he is going to be a very productive back in the NFL for years to come, and he could have been a Patriots star. New England did have a loaded backfield, but with Dion Lewis and Rex Burkhead now as free agents, Hunt would have been the perfect replacement.