Sorry for the lack of activity here the last few days, I have officially dove into the draft and at this point, narrowed down by Pats prospect list to 89 players. Yes, I’ve been buried in the draft and I’ve been enjoying it.
I’m still a long way from having them close to any kind of order, but some general thoughts so far…
– Really impressed with the number of quality players coming out this year. A lot of captain-types who definitely ping my Pats sense.
– For all the talk about Amaro, I’m focused more on the “Y” threesome of Seferian-Jenkins, Niklas,and Fiedorowicz. There are other F options down the line.
– As much as I’d love an undersized penetrating defensive lineman like Donald, I think the Pats would still lean towards a player like Hageman early on. Specialty rushers could be found later, not that I’m sure the Pats are ready for a specialty rusher like that.
– Taking a hard look at the pocket passers, including AJ McCarron. I think this is a good time to really look for a QB for Brady to help groom.
– Don’t love the cornerback or running back classes as far as the Pats are concerned.
– There are quite a few good centers. Sorting through them trying to find where the best value is and who is most desirable. The biggest thing as I see it is trying to get bigger at center and guard to deal with the middle pressure Brady struggles with so much.
– I like a lot of later round wide receivers as well. Haven’t quite found where the mid-round value guys are though.
– A collection of good hard-hitting strong safety types are sprinkled throughout the middle round range. I wouldn’t rule one of those guys out, especially if they bring a new dynamic to the safety group. That need will be easier to evaluate after free agency.
– Having a hard time finding good value on a defensive end who could contribute immediately. More and more I think they address the #3 DE need via free agency. They need to know they’re going to get something out of that spot and it’s too risky to rely on the draft for it. Pass rushing is an art form that is best developed with NFL experience.
First mock draft of the season will be out on B/R on Thursday. It will be a little rough, but on last year’s first mock draft I had both Dobson and Boyce, so maybe there’s something to be said for not over-thinking it.