The New England Patriots will enter the 2019 NFL draft with a deep cache of draft picks, 12 in total, including six picks in the first three rounds. That draft power puts the team in a strong position to draft some immediate contributors but also grants them the ability to move around the board if necessary.
Overall this draft appears to fit well in terms of positions of need the Patriots need to fill. There is a lot of talent along the defensive edge and tackle positions. On offense, there are a lot of wide receivers that would fit what the team typically looks for, and at tight end there are a number of athletic pass catchers as well.
Round 1, Pick 32 – AJ Brown WR, Ole Miss
AJ Brown is a dynamic receiver that would immediately bring youth and athleticism to the wide receiver room. At 6-foot and 226 pounds, he has good size and durability for the position. Brown is known as a tough player who excels in the slot, with exceptional route running and sure hands. Belichick has never spent a first round pick on a receiver but Brown surely would be welcomed in Foxborough with open arms. It also does not hurt that he loves Tom Brady and is already a Patriots fan.
Round 2, Pick 56 – Kaleb McGary OT, Washington
McGary certainly has the size the Patriots typically look for at the offensive tackle position, standing at 6’7″. He primarily played at right tackle in college but certainly could move inside to guard under the tutelage of offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia. This pick would provide depth in the case of current right tackle Marcus Cannon (31) declining in play or left guard Joe Thuney leaving in free agency next offseason.
Round 2, Pick 64 – Jace Sternberger TE, Texas A&M
Selecting Sternberger, the Patriots would help to fill the void left with the retirement of Rob Gronkowski. Sternberger is known for his pass catching abilities with a big catch radius and strong route running. There is certainly room for improvement in the pass blocking department but his abilities as an offensive weapon are undeniable.
Round 3, Pick 73 – Zach Allen DE, Boston College
Zach Allen has a high football IQ and strong play against both the pass and run. Allen would provide talent to a defensive edge unit that lacks a punch with Trey Flowers leaving for Detroit in free agency earlier this Spring.
Round 3, Pick 97 – Terry McLaurin WR, Ohio State
In selecting Terry McLaurin, the Patriots will double dip at the wide receiver position. McLaurin provides more size to the position and brings speed as well as a refined route running skillset. This pick would ensure the Patriots have a strong base of young wide outs under contract moving forward. McLaurin also provides versatility on special teams, operating as successful gunner for Ohio State.
Round 3, Pick 101 – Trysten Hill DL, Central Florida
Trysten Hill is a polarizing player who could really shine in Foxborough. In limited opportunities, Hill played well as a pass rusher and run defender. He is an athletic player who plays hard and is always capable of disrupting the play in front if him. The main issues with Hill revolve around his character after conflicts with the coaching staff. That being said New England could be the perfect locker room to help Hill transition into the NFL.
