NEPatriotsDraft.Com: Mock Draft #3

In this latest mock draft NEPatriotsDraft.com has us taking Aldon Smith and BC tackle Anthony Castonzo, while waiting to grab a DE until the first pick of the second round. 

In the grand scheme of  drafting there are certain positions that are far closer to locks than others. Wide receivers can be hugely difficult to project, while offensive lineman tend to be a little safer.

A defensive end, who can play on the outside during run downs, then shift inside on passing downs, would seem to be a little safer than an outside linebacker unless you’re positive that OLB is going to also be a three down player.

So you have to weigh what is easier for a rookie…

For a college defensive lineman to learn to hold the point of attack and effectively two gap on run downs. Then having the array of pass rush moves necessary to get pressure on the QB on third down.

Or for a college defensive end to learn how to play standing up… to set the edge in the running game but also drop into coverage? He also must have the array of pass rush moves to get after the QB.

Neither skill set is easy, especially in the Belichick defensive scheme, but personally I lean toward the defensive end option and that is why as of now (three months before the draft) I’m leaning that position at 17.