Patriots 2022 NFL Mock Draft 2.0: Belichick fortifies the trenches

TUSCALOOSA, ALABAMA - NOVEMBER 20: John Ridgeway #99 of the Arkansas Razorbacks reacts after sacking Bryce Young #9 of the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half at Bryant-Denny Stadium on November 20, 2021 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /

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2022 NFL Prospect Zach Tom (Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports) /

Round 5, 158: New England Patriots select Zach Tom, offensive tackle, Wake Forest

Over the years the New England Patriots found some good O-linemen in the middle rounds.

Zach Tom could be next. The former Demon Deacon has experience playing all five O-line positions. But his ability to play either bookends might be valued the most.

The Patriots re-signed Trent Brown and have Isaiah Wynn under contract for another year. But Brown’s deal is for just two years, and Wynn, the 2019 first round selection who hasn’t lived up to being the 23rd overall selection, is entering the final year of his contract. New England will need at least one new starter as soon as 2023.

Whether that will be Tom is to be determined. For now, the depth he could provide would be critical, considering the injury history of both Wynn and Brown. Tom can be a swing tackle for 2022, while positioning himself to start in 2023.

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