Joe Vellano, DT, Maryland (6’1″ – 306 – 5.35)
I speculated prior the draft that the New England Patriots would have interest in Joe Vellano and it turns out they did. Vellano is a max-effort player that leaves it all out on the field. He was an All-American selection as a Junior when he tallied 94 tackles from his DT position. I’d compare Vellano to a cross between Mike Wright and Dan Klecko. Yes he is undersized, yes he is a limited athelte, but he gets off the ball quickly, has an extremely strong upperbody and can win in a 1 gap scheme. Vellano will never give up on a play, even when he is blocked he will fit like crazy to shed and give chase down the fied. Outside of TJ Moe, Vellano has the next best shot to make this roster out of training camp. He’s full of character, heart and determination. This is the type of player that usually makes it after going undrafted. As you can tell I was a fan of his game and I am pleased he ended up in New England.