The Patriots successfully transitioned to a much-younger roster last year, with the defense especially green. With six picks in the top 92 this year -- 3 in the top 33 -- the Patriots are only going to get younger.
Of course, the team isn’t likely to stand pat. The only surprise in New England would be if they don’t make a number of trades, end up with another team’s first-round pick next year, and draft a player or two no one saw coming.
OLB: Bill Belichick’s defense was once defined by its linebackers, but they haven’t had an outside rusher you had to gameplan for in at least half a decade. Jermaine Cunningham looks like a nice piece for the future, but they need more. Belichick doesn’t want defensive lineman Mike Wright leading the team in sacks again.
DE: The Patriots have numbers here, bolstered by the recent signing of Marcus Stroud. But where is the cornerstone piece like a young Richard Seymour or Ty Warren? The old Ty Warren may not be guaranteed a roster spot. Wright is a fine player, but Ron Brace is untested. In this deep defensive end class, it makes a lot of sense to use the No. 17 pick on the position.
OL: Guard Stephen Neal retired, tackle Matt Light is a free agent, and Logan Mankins isn’t happy after getting the franchise tag. Offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia does such a great job coaching guys up that the team could wait on an interior option. Finding a tackle to pair with Sebastian Vollmer long-term would be ideal.
WR: We think it’s a bigger need than running back because BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead are better options than any young receiver the Patriots have. Brandon Tate was inconsistent last year and Taylor Price was a non-factor as a rookie. Not having a reliable deep threat is a waste of Tom Brady’s arm.
S: Brandon Meriweather has one year left on his contract and James Sanders is year-to-year.
Overview: Belichick can really set up the stretch run of Brady’s career with another strong performance. After a string of so-so drafts, the Patriots had a great class in 2010. The surplus of picks this year gives Belichick a unique chance to build a lasting and title-contending young nucleus.