It's pretty common knowledge that the Patriots two biggest needs entering the NFL Entry Draft are Linebacker and Cornerback. After the veteran DB signings of the past couple weeks it makes it slightly more likely in my book that the Pats first selection in the draft (whether it's #7 or somewhere above/below that) will be a linebacker.
It's true that the Pats haven't had a history of drafting linebackers, instead preferring free agent veterans like Junior Seau, Adalius Thomas and formerly Roman Phifer. But this year there's a healthy crop of young monsters who would be solid pass-rushing additions. Here are some of the names that are popping up the most:
By all accounts Gholston is the best of the bunch and with his freakish numbers from the Combine I've just about given up any hope that he will be there for the Patriots at #7. This is the only guy I could see the Pats actually trading UP for, but I remain skeptical that they would do that. The Rams, Raiders and Jets are all possible teams that will snag him early. I just hope it's not the Jets as the last thing we need an aging Tom Brady to deal with is this maniac twice a year.
Rivers isn't a glamourous pick, his numbers didn't really stand out at USC and some thought he benefitted from playing with Ray Maualuga and Brian Cushing (both first round talents for 2009). He could move inside where the Pats greatly need help but he's probably going to land in the teens of the first round where I don't think that Pats would be willing to draft an ILB.
Harvey's getting some attention as a potential sleeper pick for the Pats at #7 given Bill Belichick's relationship with Florida coach Urban Meyer. He's got the size to play OLB but of all the potential "tweeners" scouts are seeming to question his ability to stand up and play in space more than anyone. But he's got all the immeasurables, including be named Captain as a Junior and that's what makes people think the Pats will take a look at him.
Groves is a bit of a wild card. There are concerns that his intensity tends to wane as games go on but the player he is compared to potential-wise most often is Shaun Merriman. There are also some off-the-field concerns which signals to some that he isn't Pats material. There were similar concerns with Brandon Meriweather last year. Groves is overly aggressive and could have huge upside. Right now he's one of my sleeper favorites.
Goff grew up in Massachusetts (went to St. Johns Prep) and could be an ideal fit for the Pats in the middle of the 3-4. He should be available in the second round but the Pats might have to move up to get him.
Mayo moved from OLB to ILB last year so he's got some flexibility and football IQ that the Pats like. He will be available in the second round.
Avril might take some time to develop and gain the size he would need to play OLB but he's got a lot of intangibles, like position flexibility and football IQ. He could be a later round option.
Clearly there are a number of players who would be nice additions to the Pats. As to which one of these guys they like the most we'll have to wait until draft day. But with some manuevering around the draft board the Pats should be able to grab one or two of these guys in the first few rounds.
Keywords: New England Patriots Draft Vernon Gholston Keith Rivers Jerrod Mayo Jonathan Goff Quentin Groves Derrick Harvey
