Patriots 4-round 2021 NFL mock draft 1.0: Bill Belichick is on the clock

Round 3 No. 96 (compensatory/Brady): Levi Onwuzurike – Defensive tackle, University of Washington

If the New England Patriots lose either Lawrence Guy or Adam Butler in free agency, University of Washington defensive tackle Levi Onwuzurike is exactly the type of player Bill Belichick should select if he is there for the taking in the third round.

While the Patriots do need some beef along their defensive line, the athleticism and quickness Onwuzurike possesses would be a nice replacement for Butler if he leaves in free agency.

At 6-foot-3, 290 pounds, Onwuzurike has showcased in college that he is a good run defender and can also be a force rushing the passer, two attributes Belichick’s defense needs to improve upon in 2021.

Can’t help but make a comparison to Trey Flowers, who ironically was selected in the third round by the Patriots.

Similar to Flowers in his first couple years with the Patriots, the Washington product won’t make an immediate impact, but his discipline, size, athleticism and emotional endurance makes him the type of player who will eventually excel under the guidance of Belichick.

Let’s keep in mind with these selections, the New England Patriots are looking to find players who can help immediately as well as stabilize future stability at some key positions.  Levi Onwuzurike could help in both areas.