Final Patriots 7-Round Mock Before 2024 NFL Draft

4. Fourth Round (103rd Overall): Mekhi Wingo, DT, LSU

Defensive tackle Christian Barmore had a breakout 2023 season, and pairing the 24-year-old up with another young potential game wrecker on the defensive line would be an appetizing option for new defensive coordinator DeMarcus Covington.

Regarded as a bit of a "project", LSU's Mekhi Wingo does bring some pause with his relatively undersized frame (6'0" ft, 284 pounds at the combine), but you're not going to get perfect prospects in the fourth round.

"Wingo has shown a decent blend of strength and athleticism that teams might be interested in working with. He's strong at the point of attack to hold his own as a run defender and has flashed solid movement skills to grow as a pass-rusher."

- B/R NFL Scouting Department

His youth should help New England's front office feel better about the "project" label. Wingo is incredibly young, having only turned 21 last week, meaning that hopefully, he hasn't come close to reaching his ceiling yet.

After a strong season at LSU in 2022, Wingo was named a third-team All-American. He battled through injuries in 2023 and missed the end of the regular season after undergoing surgery. It may seem insignificant, but Wingo rehabbed fast enough to play in the team's ReliaQuest Bowl.

In an age where NFL prospects often opt out of bowl games, it's an interesting reflection on Wingo's character and drive. The new Patriots' brain trust has continued to publicly emphasize bringing in "high character" players, and the defensive lineman definitely checks that box, having been named a team captain, and was given the Tigers' prestigious No. 18 jersey.

In eight games last season, Wingo made 25 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks.