Patriots late-round 2021 NFL mock draft 1.0: Ohio St LB highlights Day 3
Round 6. 196: Khyiris Tonga, Defensive tackle/Nose tackle, BYU
One of the New England Patriots most glaring weaknesses in 2020 was size and depth in the middle of that defensive line.
Now, in the four-round mock draft, we do have the Patriots selecting Levi Onwuzurike in the third round, but don’t be surprised if they select a couple of defensive tackles in this draft which is why we have them selecting BYU DT Khyiris Tonga in the sixth round.
Khyiris Tonga. 196. player. 861. . Defensive Tackle. Cougars
At 6-foot-4, 322 pounds, this man has the size and strength to be one of those run stoppers in the middle Bill Belichick loves to have. He is not Vince Wilfork, but he could be a nice backup nose tackle, defensive tackle in a Patriots 3-4 type scheme.
Not only does he have good athleticism for his size, he is an excellent run defender who could also push the pocket with his strength.
Like Werner and Eubanks, he is a player who has played all four years in college which should make him more NFL ready to help the team sooner rather than later.
Overall, Tonga would not be a bad selection at this spot at all. Not only does he help address a need, but he also has the ability to grow into a solid NFL player under the guidance of Bill Belichick.
If he is there the Patriots should pounce on him.