2011 NFL Draft: New England Patriots analysis and prediction

Wednesday, 27 April 2011 06:09

WHERE THEY NEED HELP: Defensive end, offensive line, running back, outside linebacker

ANALYSIS: The Patriots have two first round picks, the Oakland Raiders pick at 17 they acquired for Richard Seymour, and their own pick at 28. The Defensive End position is one of the strongest in this year’s draft, and the Patriots can have their choice of Cameron Jordan from California, J.J. Watt of Wisconsin and Ryan Kerrigan of Purdue. If they want to address the offensive line where tackle Matt Light and guard Logan Mankins are free agents, the best available players at that time probably will be either Gabe Carimi of Wisconsin or Baylor’s Danny Watkins. If the Patriots want to address the running game, after Ingram, the best back is Mikel Leshoure out of Illinois.

WHAT THEY SHOULD DO: Jordan is the best pass rusher left on the board. He gets the nod over Watt, although both would be solid picks here

WHERE THEY ARE EXPECTED TO USE THE FIRST PICK: Cameron Jordan, Defensive end California

WHERE THEY ARE EXPECTED TO USE THEIR SECOND FIRST ROUND PICK: Danny Watkins, Guard Baylor (If Carimi is taken)

2011 NFL MOCK DRAFT WITH TEAM-BY-TEAM ANALYSIS AND PREDICTIONS

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2011 NFL DRAFT TEAM-BY-TEAM ANALYSIS AND PREDICTIONS