New England Patriots holla Roll Tide in 2022 NFL Mock Draft 1.0

With the No. 54 pick in the 2022 NFL Draft the New England Patriots select Christian Harris, LB, Alabama

As surprising as it would be for the New England Patriots to select a wide receiver again in the first round, it would be even more surprising if Bill Belichick doesn’t go defense in the second round where if Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Christian Harris is there, he’s snagging him.

After an impressive showing in the 2022 NFL Combine, the athletic linebacker may have propelled himself into a top 50 pick, which means if Belichick wants him, he could have to move up a bit in the second round like he did for Christian Barmore.

In releasing veteran linebacker Kyle Van Noy and the uncertainly surrounding Dont’a Hightower, it is certain the Patriots are looking to get younger, faster, stronger at the linebacker position.  At 6-foot-0, 226 pounds and 4.44 speed, Harris fits the bill and still has room to grow.

As an inside linebacker while playing for Alabama, Harris projects more as an outside linebacker in the NFL.  In the right system he can thrive and improve some of his weaknesses like instincts on the field.  But he is a linebacker who has great athletic ability and a burst that the team needs.  A perfect project for Belichick, especially with that Nick Saban influence.

If Christian Harris comes to work, he will be another hit for Belichick and yet another player making that Alabama Crimson Tide to New England Patriots transition.