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The Patriots set out with the objective to improve their cast around Drake Maye, and that’s exactly what they did in Dane Brugler’s mock draft.
The Athletic’s NFL draft expert on Wednesday released a seven-round mock and predicted each of New England’s nine draft selections. Brugler’s first three selections for the Patriots were used on offensive players.
Check out the results, including Brugler’s insight into the first few picks, here:
Round 1, No. 4: Will Campbell, OT Should the Patriots consider Ashton Jeanty? Of course — he is arguably the best player available here. But Campbell also would be in the best available conversation at this point, plus he plays a position that’s a major need for New England. The Pats nab the best offensive lineman in the draft.
Round 2, No. 38: Jayden Higgins, WR
After addressing their offensive line in Round 1, the Patriots come back and add a big, athletic wide receiver on the outside. A grouping of Higgins-Stefon Diggs-DeMario Douglas across the formation would be a clear upgrade over what New England was trotting out at receiver last season.
Round 3, No. 69: Jared Wilson, C
Round 3, No. 77: Ty Robinson, DT
Round 4, No. 106: RJ Harvey, RB
Round 5, No. 144: Kyle Kennard, Edge
Round 5, No. 171: Mitchell Evans, TE
Round 7, No. 220: Garrett Dellinger, G
Round 7, No. 238: Ryan Fitzgerald, K
Adding Campbell and Wilson, who’s the best or second-best center in the class, would make a big difference up front. And weapons like Higgins, pass-catching back Harvey and the well-rounded Evans would go a long way, as well.
It’s worth noting Brugler had the Patriots drafting Armand Membou with the fourth overall pick in his first mock draft. But Brugler, like those inside One Patriot Place, feels strongly that Campbell can play left tackle despite his length.
