New England Patriots 2018 NFL mock draft: Projecting the first 3 rounds

Round 2, Pick No. 43: Mason Rudolph QB. Oklahoma State

As much as it pains me to say it, the chances of Tom Brady playing football in his mid-40s are slim to none. TB12 only realistically has about two more years left in the tank This means that it is imperative the Patriots brass begins to start looking for the man Brady passes his illustrious torch to. Insert Mason Rudolph.

The 6 foot 5, 235 lb. QB has a fantastic presence to him in the pocket. He is tough to bring down, even without having amazing athleticism.

As far as play wise, Rudolph is quite underrated. Every year at Stillwater he improved as a passer and showed some serious potential. His touchdowns, passer rating and touchdowns thrown improved each of his three years as a starter.

Rudolph’s release has improved greatly throughout his career, and he is fantastic at letting the play develop. His deep ball was by far one of the best in FBS, and he put some great air under his balls. Although he isn’t super fast, he is a bull in the red zone and is not afraid to use his feet to punch the ball in for 6.

Not short of accolades either, just his senior year he earned the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm trophy along with the Sammy Baugh trophy. He also earned 2nd team All-Big 12 honors right behind Heisman trophy winner Baker Mayfield.

His velocity on his balls is the main concern about him, but if he finds a way to improve that, watch out. Rudolph is a perfect QB to learn under Brady for a year or two and then succeed him. In a QB rich draft, watch out for the New England Patriots selecting one on day two.