2011 New England Patriots Draft Needs
Written by Steve Janus
Even with Tom Brady at quarterback and Bill Belichick coaching, few expected the New England Patriots to go 12-4 to win the AFC East in 2010. New England wasn’t able to translate their impressive run in the regular season to playoff success, falling to the New York Jets 21-28 in their first postseason game at home. While you can’t ignore the numbers Brady put up last season (36 touchdowns to four interceptions), the 2010 Patriot draft class was a big reason why this team was so good.
The Patriots took corner Devin McCourty with their first round pick, and he ended up being one of the top corners in the game, finishing tied for second in the league with seven interceptions. New England also struck gold with tight ends Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski, who combined for 87 catches and 16 touchdowns. They also liked what they got out of linebackers Brandon Spikes and Jermaine Cunningham.
New England has an unbelievable track record in the draft under Belichick, and has plenty of ammo to make a huge splash in the 2011 draft with two picks in each of the first three rounds. Here is a look at the positions I feel New England needs to address this year. Find out who we have the Patriots taking in the first round in our 2011 NFL Mock draft.
Outside Linebacker: One thing the Patriots failed to do well in 2010 was get pressure on the quarterback. New England finished 29th in the NFL with just 25 sacks, led by Mike Wright, who had a just 5.5. With two picks in the first round, New England should be able to address this need right away. Options include Justin Houston, Akeem Ayers of UCLA, and Aldon Smith of Missouri.
Offensive Tackle: Left tackle Matt Light really slipped off in 2010, and it’s unclear whether or not he will be back in 2011. They like what they have in right tackle Sebastian Vollmer, who could move to the left side if needed. The tackle class isn’t all that deep this year, but I think if Tyron Smith of USC falls to them at No. 17 it will be hard for the Patriots to pass him up. They also could wait to take a guy like Anthony Castonzo of Boston College or Gabe Carimi of Wisconsin.
Defensive End: New England is still trying to find a replacement at the 3-4 defensive end after trading away Richard Seymour in 2009. Gerard Warren and Kyle Love held down the two starting spots in 2010, but an upgrade is needed. Two guys who I think could really help this team down the road are Adrian Clayborn of Iowa and Cameron Heyward of Ohio State.
Running Back: This position might actually be a bigger need than what we have listed, but don’t expect the Patriots to waste any of their top four picks on a running back unless a guy really stands out. BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead did a decent job, but look for New Engalnd to take a shot on someone in the third round.
Wide Receiver: Here is a position the Patriots would like to upgrade in the draft, as they really need a guy who can stretch the field. You could make the argument that Brady can make just about anyone work in this system, but a deep threat would really open the field for guys like Wes Welker and Deion Branch. If the Patriots decide there isn’t a player in the draft worth taking a shot on, look for them to add depth at corner instead.
Individual NFL Team Mock Drafts
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