2011 New England Patriots NFL Draft Needs
The New England Patriots are on the clock with the 17th overall pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. Let’s take a look at their biggest needs and how they might address them on draft day.
1. Outside Linebacker: Jerod Mayo is an All-Pro and both Brandon Spikes and Jermaine Cunningham showed potential in their rookie seasons, but the Patriots could use an upgrade at the other outside linebacker spot. They’ll likely address this need with one of their two first round picks. Purdue’s Ryan Kerrigan is an attractive option at pick No. 17 because he could potentially play outside linebacker or defensive end, where they Patriots also have a need. He proved he is more athletic than scouts originally thought at the combine and there has never been a question about his smarts and instincts. We’re talking about a player who led the country in tackles for loss last year. New England could also be in the running for Georgia’s Justin Houston if it decides to wait until pick No. 28 to fill this need. His pass rushing skills should get him on the field right away and he’ll eventually become an every down player.
2. Defensive End: The Patriots miss Richard Seymour and could use this opportunity to find his heir apparent. At pick No. 17, Wisconsin’s J.J. Watt or Cal’s Cameron Jordan are solid options. To me, Watt looks like he was born to wear a Patriots jersey. He has the size and skill set to immediately impact the defensive line alongside Ty Warren and Vince Wilfork. If Watt isn’t available, Jordan would make a nice consolation prize. He plays the run exceptionally well and is an underrated pass rusher (13.5 sacks last two years). He really impressed coaches with the way he performed in the Senior Bowl practices.
3. Offensive Line: Logan Mankins is a free agent and Matt Light has slipped a little bit. It’s time to add some more youth alongside Sebastian Vollmer. Because the Patriots have so many picks in the first three rounds, they could look to address their needs at guard and tackle with their two second round picks. Guards like Georgia’s Clint Boling and Baylor’s Danny Watkins will be possibilities at pick No. 33 and Alabama tackle James Carpenter is an option at pick No. 60.
4. Running Back: Imagine if New England had an elite running back in addition to Tom Brady. One of the best offensive teams in the NFL in 2010 would be even more dangerous. That’s why the Patriots might not be able to pass up a player like Alabama’s Mark Ingram if he were to fall to them at pick No. 28. They could also look to take Virginia Tech’s Ryan Williams with their early second round pick or Kansas State’s Daniel Thomas with their late second round choice.
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