Projecting The Patriots 2020 Offseasons Moves

The Patriots have several needs going forth. How Belichick fills those holes, is going to be crucial to the team making the playoffs and staying a contender for the next several seasons. I'm gonna play GM and tell you what I think the team is going to do.

The Patriots will not use the franchise tag and will lose many of their free agents because they wanna get paid now that they have rings but Bill has a plan, that does not include Marshal Newhouse. "In Bill We Trust!"

The good new is the Patriots resign Tom Brady to a 3 year deal, worth $70 Million. This move keeps Brady happy, allows him to play to 45 and gives the Patriots spending money. The Patriots aren't done there, they resign special teams captain Matthew Slater to a 1 year, $2 Million contract, for a last hoorah.

The Patriots are also going to resign Jamie Collins to a 2 year, $7.25 Million contract with incentives. Collins is critical to the defense as he was the game changer in 2019. The Patriots struggled every since they shipped him to Cleveland, and the bend don't break defense broke without him. Belichick will try to resign D-Mac but he will ask for $9 Million plus a season before bolting to a former Patriots coach.

The Patriots will Trade Rex Burkhead to the Carolina Panthers for a 2021 sixth round pick. Carolina is looking for a number two back and Burkhead is a valuable weapon when healthy but that's the problem and why his trade value has dropped. He is not a number one but will give McCaffrey a break once in a while without causing a change in the Panthers offense. Belichick is always looking for draft capital.

The Patriots will also trade Mohammed Sanu to Buffalo for edge rusher Trent Murphy. Bill has shown he is not afraid to trade in division time after time, Just look where he sent Thomas in 2019. Over the last 2 years Murphy has 1 Interception, 60 combined tackles. 14 Tackles for loss, 18 QB hits, and 9 sacks. The 29 year old Former second round pick is in the final year of his contract and has never lived up to his draft potential. Murphy is a versatile player who can play linebacker or end. This move will not save money, however it is still a low risk move with high potential, and Belichick will get the best out of him.

The Patriots will sign receiver AJ Green to a 3 year $11 million dollar contract. Green will both be looking to show he's not done and will be chasing a ring. Green has been injured the past few seasons but when healthy is a productive top 10 receiver. In 9 games in 2018 Green caught 58.7% of his passes. He was targeted 77 times catching 46 passes for 694 yards and 6 touchdowns, averaging 15.1 yards per reception. The problem with Green is he missed 7 games in 2018 and the entire 2019 season due to injury. Green has been trapped in a stagnant Bengals offense and playing with Brady will revive him. He won't be Randy Moss but he will be a very productive player. At 6'4" he with a vertical of 34.5" he adds a threat on 50/50 Balls and in the redzone. Two areas the Patriots were lacking in 2019. Green also brings veteran leadership on the field and another dimension of mentorship for developing younger receivers off the field.

The Patriots are also in the market for a top tight end. Don't hold your breathe on Gronk coming back. Hooper is gonna have bids too high and I'll be shocked if Ebron takes less than $6 million a season. With that the Patriots are going to go after another player with an injury history and double dip on Cincinnati signing Tyler Eifert to a 3 year $13.5 million contract. Eifert caught 68.3% of his passes, catching 43 of 63 for 436 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also averaged 10.1 yards per catch, and is a tall redzone threat. He's not gonna be Gronkowski but he's productive and again that's what the Patriots need. This signing will see Matt Lecosse get the axe.

The two former Bengals both injury prone but are productive. If the Patriots can get three to five years out of these two guys, it will be a successful offseason. The big concern with signing first or second tier players as if late has to be them pulling an ASJ or Eric Decker and walking away after they're factored into the offensive scheme for the year.

Signed is Kareem Martin to a 1 year $1.5 million deal. Martin played in 21 games for the giants over the past two seasons. He recorded 2 passes defended, 1.5 sacks, 54 combined tackles, 6 tackles for loss and 10 quarterback hits. 6'6" 272 pounds, Martin can play the edge or be moved inside. The Giants were a dumpster fire as of late, and it's not surprising that Martin's stats reflect. Martin is a low risk High reward signing. If he doesn't work out, the Patriots will be okay.

The Patriots need to free up some cap room and will cut Jason McCourty, who will end up in Detriot, Miami, or with the Giants. Belichick has been trying to get Aqib Talib back since he left and will finally get him signed for 2 years $5 million. Talib has had health issues the past two seasons. Talib was once one of the best corners in the game and when on the field quarterbacks still don't throw to him. Over the last two seasons Talib has only played in 13 games. He had 7 passes defended, 1 interception, 1 forced fumble, 1 fumble recovery, and 37 combined tackles. Talib will provide veteran experience to a young secondary.

In the mock draft, Belichick goes Jimmy Johnson crazy,  baiting and accepting trades, while fleecing the nfl.

Tennessee trades up to 23 to get Kenneth Murry, sending the Patriots round one pick 29, the 93rd pick, and 243rd pick. Miami Trades up to get Trevon Diggs at 29, send the patriots the 39th pick, 142nd pick, and pick 162. 

In round two, with the 39th pick in the draft the Falcons Trade up for Terrell Lewis, sending the Patriots the picks 47 and 55 of the draft.

With the 47th pick of the NFL draft the Patriots take receiver KJ Hamler Penn St. In his career Hamler caught 98 balls for 1658 yard with 8 touchdowns, averaging 16.1 yards per reception. Hamler also rushed 17 times for 81 yards and a touchdown. Hamler had 44 kick Reterns with a 23.5 yard average and 37 punt returns with a 6 yard average. Hamler stands 5'9" 176 pounds.  Hulking up with Edelman, wouldn't hurt. He reminds me of a faster version of Julian Edelman. He is a good route runner who can stretch the field with speed and has quickness to get separation. Teams wont want to leave him in space. The fact that he is not only a return specialist but gunner will guarentee Belichick does not red shirt him. On the down side needs to catch less with his body and to perfect blocking style. This is Edelman's replacement and if Harry Develops into the first rounder expect, this duo will give the Patriots a top 10 passing attack, as they come into their prime.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/kj-hamler/iWPvI1oACF

With the 55th pick in the NFL draft the Patriots take defensive tackle Ross Blacklock TCU. Ross is a first round Talent who has had some injuries in college, which will cause him to drop in the draft. During his career he had 67 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss and 5.5 sacks. Ross can play tackle or edge and his versatility will allow Belichick to be creative in scheming. He is a 6'4" 305 prototype player who is fast, can change direction and can disrupt the line. He will expect a lot of double teams, and create opportunities for others. Ross is a guy I would like to see utilize stunt plays. He needs some development but should be a year one starter regardless if it's a 34 or 43. Ran a disappointing 4.90 - 40 at the combine

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/ross-blacklock/t7ydLnDRk4

With the 87th pick of the draft in third round the Patriots select Interior offensive lineman Jonah Jackson Ohio State. Jackson stands 6'4" 310 pounds. With the loss of Thuney and Karras, plus uncertainty with Andrews, the Patriots need a guy who is ready to start on day one if needed. He is a zone blocker who can pass block and even pull as a guard. He will even move downfield to pick up blocks. He can shift from side to side as the pocket moves, is very athletic and will be an anchor for the line and could push Andrews out the door in a few seasons. In year one expect him to sit behind Froholdt and Andrews, unless he has a good camp. Ran a 5.23 - 40 and 7.83 - 3cone at the combine.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jonah-jackson/31Cm72gd0b

With the 93rd pick of the draft in the third round Patriots Select Tackle Calvin Throckmorton Oregon. Throckmorton is another steal for Belichick. Standing 6'5" 310 pounds, Throckmorton can play anywhere on the line and will prevent the Patriots from having to deal with another 2019 offensive line problem. Ben Martin his assistant coach said Throckmorton "knew the playbook better then he did." New England has a complicated playbook and needs intelligent players. Throckmorton only allowed one sack in his last thirty one games, he's agile and is a decent run blocker. While Cajuste will be the Patriots new swing tackle and should challenge for the starting right tackle role, Throckmorton will be a solid core depth piece and could be developed into a future starter. Ran a 5.57 - 40 and 8.07 - 3 cone.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/calvin-throckmorton/21GAmJvnAI

With the 97th pick of the draft in the third round the patriots select Tight End Albert Okwuegunam Missouri, who is not only underrated but I believe the best tight end in the draft. Standing 6'5" 255 pounds he is a freak. In his 3 years he caught 98 passes for 1187 yards and 23 touchdowns, averaging 12.1 yards per catch. Albert can line up in the backfield as an H-Back(FB), Play out wide or line up in the traditional spot. He will bully defenders at the line and down field. He can run the seam routes, go up for jump balls and is faster than one would expect for tight ends, running a 4.49 at the combine. While he needs some fine tuning with his blocking and route vision, he will win contested catches, split the seam, draw double coverage and be a dangerous redzone threat. Tom Brady has been searching for a new security blanket and the Patriots got him one. 

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/albert-okwuegbunam

https://youtu.be/shGgnnVmF50

With the 99th pick of the draft in the third round the Patriots select nose guard Davon Hamilton Ohio State. The Patriots have been looking for someone who can replace Big Vince Wilfolk and finally found him, standing 6'4" 327 pounds. During his career Hamilton produced 66 combined tackles, 20 tackles for loss and 7 sacks, 3 fumble recovers and 1 touchdown. Hamilton is a pocket disruptor. Hamilton won't get a lot of sacks but he will plug holes and force double teams, along with Blacklock, allowing a free run at the quarterback and giving the patriots a dangerous pass rush. Hamilton is athletic enough that although he is built for a 34 nosed guard, he can be moved around in a 43, 52 or 7 diamond scheme. Ran  5.14 - 40 at the combine. Hamilton's best value maybe when it comes to goaline stops. Hamilton could use to learn better technique with his hands and with Belichick, he could be a name in the league before his rookie contract is up. With Blacklock, Hamilton and the updated linebacker core from this draft, the Patriots could run a base 2-4-5 nickel.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/davon-hamilton/0rMLfjtcnZ

In round 4 the Jaguars trade back to get C Keith Ismael at 122nd sending the Patriots picks 113th, 189th and 206th for patriots picks 122nd and 162nd.

The Jets trade up to 113 for Saahdiq Charles sending the Patriots picks 117 and 158.

With the 117th pick the Patriots select quarterback Jalen Hurts Oklahoma. Standing at 6'2" 218, Hurts completed 682 if 1047 passes with 65.1 completion percentage. He threw for 9477 yards, with 80 touchdowns and 20 Interceptions finishing with a 162.2 rating. Jalen also rushed for 614 times, for 3274 yards and 43 touchdowns. He ran a 4.59 at the combine, He's not Lamar Jackson but maybe Randell Cunningham or a better version of Tyrod Taylor. Like another quarterback back in Patriots history, Hurts was told he wasn't good enough and kept being pushed down and having to prove people wrong. Hurts went 38-4 as a starter. That will be what drives Hurts. He could use to sit a behind Brady and develop. He is a dangerous drink and dunk quarterback, willing to take what he is given but gets periods were he tries to force the deep ball.. Although he is a scrambler who occasionally doesn't trust his o-line, he will stay in the pocket with a defender barrelling down on him to put an accurate pass where only his receiver can get it. He has great arm strength and can use to improve his Mechanics to add better release time and more power. People question his deep ball accuracy. In New England that won't be a problem, and when he gets a guy deep, his target will come down with the ball because the team isn't a deep ball team. This is the perfect marriage as long as Brady comes home, and will set the Patriots up to be successful for another decade. Not to mention a quarterback battle between Stidham and Hurts would help both. 

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jalen-hurts/QPdYkyDT0T

With the 142nd pick of the 2020 NFL draft the Patriots select Tight End Jacob Breeland Oregon. Breeland is a steal at pick 142, standing 6'5" 250" pounds. Breeland finished with 74 receptions for 1225 yards averaging 16.6 yards per catch and 16 touchdowns. Breeland suffered a leg injury in 2019 which hurt his ability to show scouts his true capabilities. Like Okwuegunam, Breeland can be lined up anywhere. While not as good of an athlete, he is a solid blocker and will again come down with contested catches and be a good redzone target. Breeland has a large catch radius, soft hands and is good at getting yards after the catch. The Patriots would be smart to let him run the underneath slot routes and let Okwuegunam take the deeper routes. Breeland can use some development and there's worry about his speed but by the 2021 season, the Patriots could return to their two tight end offense if they so desired.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jacob-breeland

With the 158th Pick of the NFL draft the Patriots select receiver Quartney Davis Texas A&M. Davis is a tall receiver at 6'2" 200 lbs. During his two year career he totalled 99 catches, 1201 yards with 12.1 yards per catch and 11 touchdowns. He also rushed for 45 yards in 8 carries. In 2019 he returned 1 punt for 12 yards. Davis is a quick route runner who can stretch the field from anywhere on the field. At the combine he had a 4.54 40 speed and a 35.5" vertical.  Davis is quick and agile but suffered from having sub par quarterbacks. The Patriots will like the fact he is used to jet sweeps and will lay himself out to block. He would be a number one in development on any other team but will be a dangerous 3 or 4 in New England and could push Meyers down or off the roster. His draft stock was also hurt by an injury and only two years of play. This could be a player Belichick redeems himself on at the position.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/quartney-davis/mOZwxOtVHi

With the 189th pick the Patriots select tight end Cheyenne O'Grady Arkansas. The only reason O'Grady is not a 3rd or 4th round pick is due to off field issues. O'Grady is again just a hair behind Breeland. Like the other two he is an decent blocker who can play any of the three tight end positions. He is a combination of strength and quickness to surprise defenses. He will battle with Izzo for the number 3 spot and like Okwuegunam and Breeland, provide depth at fullback. He will be good running flats, drags, Wheel and curl routes. Standing 6'4" 256 pounds, In his career he totalled 87 catches for 967 yards. Averaging 11.1 yards per catch and 12 touchdowns. He also had 1 carry for 3 yards in 2019. In the combine he ran a 4.81 and had a 7.3 cone drill, with a 34" vertical. Belichick will have to fix his technique and where he places his hands while blocking. He will also need to learn to sell his routes better but his soft hands will make him worth it. The Patriots could decide to keep all 4 tight ends and bring back their 4 tight end set.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/cheyenne-ogrady/eHguo6g2zU

With the 195th pick the Patriots Select Defensive back Levonta Taylor Florida State. Standing 5'10" 190 pounds. Taylor defended 10 passes and had 4 Interceptions for 81 yards and 2 touchdowns.  He also had 90 tackles, 1 sack, 5.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble. Former 5 star recruit, He converted to Safety. Been praised for his footwork and plays well in the zone. Can catch up to the homerun play and prevent a score. During his college career, teams didn't pick on him due to his athleticism and ability to jump the pass. Good at blitzing and analyzing routes. He will be a good fit in Belichick's system and with both McCourtys and Bethel and Ebner gone, he provides much needed depth and is project as a nickel back. If he needs some development but hadn't had a back injury the Patriots don't get him as he goes higher up.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/levonta-taylor/AbKFNc2AsV

With the 204th pick the Patriots select linebacker Markus Bailey Purdue. A Smart and athletic 6'1" 240 pounds. He had 324 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, 6 interceptions, 6 passed defensed, 1 forced fumble and 2 fumble recoveries. The Patriots need to plan for the future and this future defensive captain is a start. With loss of Roberts and Van Noy, Bailey while not the best linebacker drafted by the Patriots, he is going to be around for a while. His versatility to play at the edge, to cover underneath receivers, or to play any linebacker position makes him valuable. He can read the play and seems to know where to go. He's a good run stopper who's better in zone coverage. He is also gonna contribute early in special teams. Bailey follows a pattern of draft picks falling due to injury.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/markus-bailey/OtGYSwyJNA

With the 206th pick the Patriots select linebacker Justin Strnad Wake Forest. This might be the most underrated player in this draft at the position.  Team Captain standing 6'3" 235 pounds, Strnad could use ten pounds. An intelligent, athletic linebacker with speed, that reminds me of an under developed Jamie Collins. He will be used all over the field, and could be the eventual successor to Boomtower. He is always running, and has the brains to back it up. He can analyze plays quickly and has a nose for the football. He can Cover, Blitz or just be a decoy causing havoc. His problem is he's small, can fall for double moves, played for a smaller school, and was taken out by a bicep injury. Don't be surprised if he is the Patriots next acrobatic kick blocker. In college he produced 244 tackles, 22.5 for loss. 8 sacks, 4 Interceptions. 10 passes defended, 1 forced fumble and three recoveries. 

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/justin-strnad/wIIAlTsmNq

With the 212th pick the Patriots select Safety Julian Blackmon Utah. 6'1" 204 pounds. In four years he totalled 154 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, 8 interceptions for 107 yards and 2 touchdowns. 20 passes defended, and 2 forced fumbles. A former corner who can find a way into Harmon's deep safety role, when developed could be a future starting free safety. Was a top 5 free safety in 2019 according to PFF who rated him 89.8. He can read a defense and cover tight ends. Needs to work on his point of attack and decision making. Had a knee injury near the end of his career. He is a low risk, high reward pick.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/julian-blackmon/Q5viT1WLPL

With the 213th pick the Patriots select edge rusher Trevis Gipson Tulsa. 6"4" 268 pounds. Gipson recorded 114 tackles, 25 tackles for loss and 13 sacks. He also defended 3 passes and had 8 forced fumbles. Gipson is a developmental player who can be effective early on as he is an anchor on the edge and doesn't let players around him. Highest-rated AAC EDGE run-defender in 2018 according to PFF. He needs development on his pass rushing coming off the edge, some hand placement and some fundamentals. He will probably be a practice squad special teamer unless he can impress with his development.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/trevis-gipson/EMPCyH2IFo

With the 230th pick Patriots select linebacker Mohammed Barry Nebraska, 6'1" 245 pounds. Another athletic inside linebacker with a high motor, to add speed and quickness to the depth chart. He will play sideline to sideline. Will shut down the run. Needs work on his man coverage but can cover running backs and tight ends. Needs development change of direction as well and he gets too aggressive in pursuit but otherwise can do almost everything. Should earn a spot on special teams, he could sneak in on year one. In college he had 245 tackles 14.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 passed defended, 2 fumble recoveries. 

https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/mohamed-barry-1.html

With the 235th pick the Patriots select defensive back Jaron Bryant Fresno State. Another safety in corner's clothes. Compiled 178 tackles, 6.5 for loss, 6 Interceptions for 103 yards and 2 touchdowns, 2 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery. He relys on instincts, and tends to watch the quarterback's eyes jumping the receiver to the ball, which can lead to giving up big plays.  He's better in zone than man. He can play press coverage adequately but his skills and abilities as a safety prospect make him too hard to pass on. He could be a good Nickleback.A candidate for a redshirt year.

https://thedraftnetwork.com/player/jaron-bryant/qgtjhL3i1N

With the 241st the Patriots select kicker Radrigo Blankenship Georgia. Made 82 of 97 with a percentage rate of 82.5 on field goals, 92.7 under forty yards and was perfect on extra points. Supposed to be the top kicker in the league but I still like Johnathon Song. Blankenship will be one of four kickers the Patriots bring to Try out If Gostkowski is not ready to go or is unable to perform, expect a hard fought kicking competition, and possibly a new kicker come week 1.

With the 243rd and their final pick Patriots take running back Malcolm Perry Navy. While he played Quarterback in 2019 and many scouts see him going as a wide receiver, I think he will follow Danny Woodhead and be a running back whom he will replace Brandon Bolden as the teams utility and special team's back. He's built like a running back and there's a question about his ability to seperate. Perry is 5'9" 190 pounds, I'd like to see him bulk up to 205-210. His three cone is going to be great as he's very agile. While his passing numbers weren't anything to brag about, his threat with his legs and his ability to catch make him dangerous. As a quarterback, he's like a C rate version of Lamar Jackson. He rushed 613 times for 4359 yards and 40 touchdowns, averaging 6.8 yards per carry. He can line up in the slot and had 22 catches for 470 yards and 3 touchdowns. He is even said to be able to return kicks. Ran a 4.63 - 40, 7.12 - 3 cone, and has a 36" vertical. What I like about him is his ability to change Direction and throw in the run. The patriots haven't had a back that excelled at running the counter since Woodhead. While he's not going to be the quarterback, the threat of him running pitches and having the option to throw will cause defensive mismatches and create chunk plays. If the Patriots wanted to run the Patriots special, Brady would have a more accurate person throwing him the ball. Defense will now have to worry about the possibility of two other players not Named Brady on the field that could throw. Having emergency depth at quarterback, also doesn't hurt. 

https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.patspulpit.com/platform/amp/2020/1/20/21067124/2020-nfl-draft-scouting-report-navy-malcolm-perry-new-england-patriots

The Patriots sign Undrafted free agents: Kicker Johnathon Song TCU, Kicker Jake Koehnke Air force, Kicker Sam Sloman Miami OH, RB - Tra Minter South Alabama, RB - Art Thompkins UConn, KR/PR/WR - Receiver Joe Reed Virginia, ST-Gunner/WR - Tyrie Cleveland Florida, IOL - Darryl Williams Mississippi, DT -  Tyler Clark Georgia, DT -  Benito Jones Ole Miss.

Camp Battles

Kicker, fullback, Right Tackle, Left Guard, Number 3 Tight End, Utility RB, DB, Backup QB.

If the Patriots cannot find Brady's successor it won't matter who they Bring in. The team will be as good as when Cassel was the Quarterback. Here I laid out a blue print that allows the Patriots to build for the future, while at the same time retooling to stay a contender until  after the 2022 season. There's a lot of projected late round - UDFA sleepers but that's where Belichick excels.

All stats from https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/

https://fanspeak.com/ontheclock/sharedraft.php?d=mftfma#.Xldty6RtDhM.twitter

The base the Patriots should be running

When the Patriots drafted Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez, they changed the NFL. In 2019, the Ravens and the Chiefs changed the NFL offensive landscape.

To counter these new offenses, a standard 3-4 or 4-3 base defense will not work. These offenses are too big and too fast. So, how do the Patriots cover them?

The Answer is a 5-0 otherwise known as a big dime. Bill Belichick seemed to invent the hybrid defensive player, and that's what this defensive scheme is about. Let me break position down.

It starts with a Nose Guard. We are talking the likes of Big Vince Wilfolk. Someone who can be a plug to stop the run, and a pocket mover to disrupt the pass. This player must also be able to play 4-3 DT.

Surrounding the NG on the line are two Defensive Tackles hybrids. These guys are big enough to play defensive tackle but fast enough to play defensive end and set an edge. Think Richard Seymour.

Finishing off the line on each end is a defensive end - outside linebacker hybrid. These players will probably be a little undersized but they can set the edge or drop back into coverage.  Think Rob Ninkovich or Jamal Sheard.

This set up allows so offenses dont know who's dropping into coverage, trying to contain the quarterback or setting the edge.

Two corners one on each side, unless playing Man.  Standard build, And Two free safety corner hybrids (D-mac / Rod Woodson) which will be playing cover 1, cover 2, or Man. These players will cover the number three receiver or be support over the top. This is to cover the speed threat NFL offenses are using 

Two hybrid box safety middle linebacker. These guys are probably gonna be bigger than safeties and undersized for middle linebackers (Cory Wire). They will cover tight ends in multi tight end sets, take on a back, cover the number 4 and 5 receivers, or blitz the QB. These guys can be swapped for an extra corner, If needed.

This defense will cause massive scheming problems for offenses. Belichick runs a base nickle now, and loves his hybrids. The Patriots are one of few teams that can pull off such a defense. The only other formation Belichick could run to change the NFL is a 2-4-5 nickel but that is common sense enough not to need a post.

Trade heavy Patriots mock draft.

I did a Patriots Seven round mock draft excepting trades that seemed good and only trading up once. Was a few players I have selected in lock drafts this week that either I missed or Football didn't include in their draft board that fan speak, CBS, and the draft network do. This draft reminded me of a Jimmy Johnson style draft.

Round 1

Pick 23 to Baltimore for Pick 28 and Round 2 pick 28. Tee Huggins selected

Pick 28 to the Giants for Round 2 pick 4, Round 3 pick 34, Round 7 pick 33. Terrell Lewis selected.

Round 2

Cleveland Trades up to pick 4 and sends New England Round 2 pick 9 and Round 3 pick 10. Xavier McKinney Selected.

Denver Trades up for the 9th pick of the round and sends Round 2 pick 14, Round 4 pick 12, Round 7 picks 38 and 41. Jalen Reager selected. 

Round 2 pick 14 the Patriots take WR KJ Hamler Penn St. If you combine Edelman, Slater, and Dorsett and you get KJ Hamler.  The Patriots found Edelman's future Replacement, a deep threat and a true special teamer.

The Jets trade up for Pick 28 at round 2.  Sending picks Round 3 pick 39, Round 4 pick 43. Jacob Phillips selected.

Round 3

The Patriots send round 3 pick 10 and Round 4 pick 19 to Cincinnati for Round 1 pick 1 and Round 7 pick 1. The Patriots select tight end Albert Okwuegunam Missouri. There will never be another Gronk but Albert will make sure the Patriots don't miss him.

At Round 3 pick 10 the Pats get Interior Offensive Lineman Jonah Jackson Ohio St. The guy can pull and get down field. He can start at guard or center. He can play zone, and is decent at both run and pass blocking. Can he play tackle or and how well can he catch?

At pick 23 of the round the Patriots select Calvin Throckmorton tackle-guard from Oregon.  The Patriots find their swing tackle and secure the depth of their offensive line.

With the 30th pick of round 3 the Patriots select QB Jalen Hurts Oklahoma. Good mobility, decent short accuracy. A strong arm. Will sit for a year or two behind Brady and fix his Mchanics for a quicker, more powerful release.

Philly Sends Round 3 pick 39 and round 4 pick 43 for pick 34. Jacob Phillips selected.

At Round 3 pick 35 Davon Hamilton Ohio St  34 defensive tackle or 43 defensive end. 

Round 3 pick 39 Patriots select edge rusher Darrell Taylor Tennessee.

Round 4

The eagles trade up to pick 12 of the round for round 4 picks 21 and 37. James Morgan selected.

Pick 14 round 4, Patriots select tight end Jacob Breeland Oregon. The Patriots get a decent player and can afford to let go Matt Lecosse.

Pick 21 round 4, Patriots select wide out Quartney Davis Texas A&M.

Pick 37 round 4 the Patriots select corner Lamar Jackson Nebraska. The Patriots add depth to a core and can cut Jason McCourty.

Round 4 Pick 43 the Patriots select Malik Harrison linebacker Ohio st. With the loss of Van Noy and possibly Robert's the Patriots get their first linebacker.

Round 5

Dallas Trades up. Sends picks 18 and 33 to New England for the 12 pick of the round. Jeremy Jeudy selected.

Pick 18 round 5 the Patriots take defensive tackle Raequan Williams Michigan St. The Patriots continue to improve their defensive line. 

At pick 33 the Patriots select Linebacker  Markus Bailey Purdue. The Patriots add another rotational player to their line up with potential to become a starter.

Round 6

At pick 12 the Patriots select safety Jilian Blackmon Utah. Better late than never as the Patriots get someone to help fill the void caused by Devon McCourty.

At pick 16 Tino Ellis Maryland corner back. Another Depth piece.

At pick 25 the Patriots take linebacker Shaquille Quaterman Miami. The Patriots are adding depth to their linebacking core. This is a steal.

At pick 33 from Syracuse, Edge Rusher Alton Robinson. Another steal as the Patriots try to bolster their front seven.

At pick 34 the Patriots take corner Lavonta Taylor Florida State. The Patriots find a good depth piece here. 

Round 7

At pick 1 the Patriots take Baylor receiver Denzel Mims. One of the better receivers in the draft. How did he fall this low?

At pick 16 the Patriots take Cheyenne O'Grady tight end Arkansas. The Patriots will have a battle with Ryan Izzo. 

At pick 21 the Patriots select safety Jeremy Chinn S. Illinois. A good special teamer and depth piece.

At pick 27 the Patriots select defensive lineman Tyler Clark. Georgia. A body and developmental player .

At pick 33 patriots select linebacker Mykal Walker Fresno St. The patriots will have a good line backing core again in 2020 and Walker could make things interesting for Belichick.

At Pick 35 the Patriots take Netani Muti Guard Fresno St. The Patriots had to take Muti at this point. Low risk high reward potential here.

At 38 kicker Jet Toner Stanford. A camp body

At pick 41 the Patriots select running back Deejay Dallas Miami. Another camp body.

Dropping some mock UDFA signings: Justin Strnad Linebacker Wake Forest, Johnathon Song TCU Kicker, Tra Minter S. Alabama Running back, Spencer Nigh Auburn Fullback, Malcolm Perry Navy, and Jaron Bryant Fresno St Defensive Back.

With this type of draft, the Patriots presumably Paid Brady and maybe 1 or 2 other Big names.

The Patriots will add Depth to Special Teams

The New England Patriots didn't have the best special teams unit in 2020. The kicking game was a revolving door, the returners were a joke, and the only good thing they had going for them was their punting unit.

The club cannot afford to let an aging Edelman continue to return punts. The Patriots have been trying to find a return man for a few years now. Slater is near retirement and both him and Bethel are free agents. Bolden is a do it all but he's just average to above average at best. 

The 2020 draft is loaded with special team players that can contribute on either side of the ball. Early this year, I built my big board for best fit by position for the team. I have been criticized for not going after Marquee players. Most of them are underrated, developmental, or day 3 players. Especially the running and defensive backs I chose. 

Many a New England fan are ignoring the cap space and team holes. This year's draft and free agency period is about two things, versatility and depth. Belichick will do what he always does. Get the best employees, for the right price. With the CBA making things difficult, Bill will get to show how good of a GM he is, one more time.

The Patriots Needs Going In To 2020

There's a lot of talk about what the Patriots biggest needs are. Everyone has an opinion but this offseason has a little bit of uncertainty that makes it different. With that said, Let me give my opinion.

The first thing the Patriots need to address is the Quarterback situation. There is no guarantee Tom Brady is returning. The team could pay more for a free agent to come in and learn the system or go with Stidham. However, until they know what's what with Brady, it's their top need. If the team can resign Brady, the need drops to below offensive line. If they cannot get Brady, drafting a quarterback who will need to learn the system makes just as much sense as signing a free agent.

Tight end is the second most important area for the team to address. The team needs a second security blanket and someone that can help take pressure off of Edelman and James White in the passing game. They also need someone who can block. The loss of Gronkowski and the walking away of Austin Seferian-Jenkins really hurt the Patriots. Nick Caleb couldn't get any production out of his tight ends. If the team resigns Brady, this becomes the teams biggest need. With lack of production from the position, a new position coach might be helpful.

Linebacker is the teams third need. The Patriots had probably the best pass defense and it was due to the teams linebacking core. The 2019 defense was the best the team has looked since the last time they played a 34 defense base. The team must go out and get some linebackers so that they can continue to take away the staple of almost every offense in the league.

In fourth is the defensive line. This one was close but the need to address both the edge and interior is more important. If the rest of the defense is built to stop the pass, this part must be built to stop the run up the gut. The fact Shelton is likely gone means the team needs a new plug. Someone who can bull doze the center of the line. They also need an edge rusher, someone who can help set the edge, contain running quarterbacks and keep the running backs stuffed at the edge. With loss of the position coach, a new one is a must.

In fifth the team needs to address the offensive line. People have this as one of the top needs. However, they forget about Cajuste and Froholdt. With those two being labeled steals of the 2019 draft, the team must rely on them. So the team must get a replacement for Andrew's incase he can not come back healthy. They should also look to add an interior offensive linemen and swing tackle. With loss of the position coach, a new one is a must.

Sixth, the team must answer the Devin Mccourty situation. He refused to take a pay cut in 2019 and it stands to say he's gonna want near ten million in cash for 2020. With his brother also eat a lot of cap, bringing in two defensive backs makes too much sense.

In seventh, the team needs to address the kicker. The Team has Gostkowski coming off hip surgery and folk deserves a start in the league. The team needs to draft a kicker and I listed four kickers in an earlier article. The kicking game is one of the most important parts to a successful run at a seventh ring.

Eighth, the Patriots need to address special teams. Slater, Ebner, and Bethel are all free agents. The team will need to get gunners and return men. The team can bring in special teamers that can contribute on the offense and defense. Bringing in a back that could help compete with Bolden or a wideout that can contribute to the passing game, while being a special team ace would be huge. Making sure the right assistant is promoted to this coaching spot makes sense.

Lastly, I kinda touched upon this but the team needs a deep threat. A stretch receiver. The core they had is not good enough, even with the addition of one or two top tier tight ends. Judge could not teach separation but the lack of a deep threat allowed teams to play closer to the line and hurt the already wounded running game. If the team cannot bring in a burner via free agency, they must draft one. The Patriots need a position coach that can get production and separation out of his players. Maybe Troy Brown.

I have listed the players I think the Patriots should target in all three phases of the game in earlier blogs. The players I selected might not be the best players available but are the people I think are the best fits. The Patriots dont need to go get square pegs. We have seen them do that too much in the past. It's time Belichick got back to doing what he does best. Getting the person who best fits the team needs and giving them the ability to use all their abilities. 

New England's 2020 Defense and special Teams Prospects

The Patriots have a lot of good players on free agency and a lot of holes to fill. If the team wants to stay competitive in 2020, they must reload where they can. The good thing is the Patriots is stacked at the secondary. 

The Patriots will lose their interior defensive line and most of their linebacking core. The pass rush from the edge could also use some upgrades. Here are some players the Patriots might pursue.

Defensive Lineman: Ross Blacklock TCU, Davon Hamilton Ohio St, Raequan Williams Michigan St, Tyler Clark Georgia, Benito Jones Ole Miss, Mike Panasuik Michigan St, Josiah Coatney Ole Miss, Darrion Daniels Nebraska, McTelvin Agim Arkansas, Bravvion Roy Baylor

Edge Rusher: Darrell Taylor Tennessee, Kenny Willekes Michigan St, Alton Robertson Syracuse, Jabari Zuniga Florida, Nick Coe Auburn, Marlon Davidson Auburn, Johnathan Garvin Miami, Trevis Gipson Tulsa, Oluwole Betiku Illinois, Jonathan Greenard Florida

Line Backers: Malika Harrison Ohio St, Justin Strnad Wake Forest, Markus Bailey Purdue, Mohammed Barry Nebraska, Shaquille Quarterman Miami, Mykal Walker Fresno St, Cameron Brown Penn St, Francis Bernard Utah, Logan Wilson Wyoming, Marcel Spears Iowa St, Caleb Kelly Oklahoma

As I said earlier the Patriots are stacked in the secondary but are at risk of losing Mccourty, Ebner, and Bethel. They may actually cut the other Mccourty to save some cap space. Whether it's via the draft or the undrafted free agent process, the team normally excels in this department. Here are some players Steve Belichick can mold into prime time players.

Corner-Defensive Backs: Lamar Jackson Nebraska, Jaron Bryant Fresno St, Levonta Taylor Florida St, Reggie Robinson Tulsa, Elijah Riley Army, Tino Ellis Maryland, Kevin McGill Eastern Michigan, Christopher Fredrick Syracuse, Kamren Curl Arkansas, Dane Jackson Pitt, Alvin Davis Akron

Safety-Defensive Backs: Julian Blackmon Utah, Jeremy Chinn S. Illinois, K'Von Wallace Clemson, Antonie Brooks Maryland, Reggie Floyd Virginia Tech, Brian Cole Mississippi St, Nigel Warrior Tennessee, Tanner Muse Clemson, Jaylinn Hawkins California, Blake Furguson LSU, Steve Wirtel Iowa St

Everything is a guessing game for the Patriots. Nobody knows what Belichick is going to do. I got a few names right last year, although Ken Webster turned out to be a waste of a draft pick.  Only time will tell what the 2020 New England Patriots will look like.