2013 NFL Draft: New England Patriots Needs for Day Two

The New England Patriots made history once again in the draft, even though, some can argue that there’s nothing new in making a trade in the draft. But last night’s trade was no ordinary trade. It was the most picks (4) that Bill Belichick has ever banked for the Patriots in a single draft-day trade. Expect to be amused by Belichick as the guy is truly a genius and tonight we will see how much Belichick will capitalize on this one-of-a-kind opportunity.

Jan 13, 2013; Foxboro, MA, USA; New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick at press conference after the AFC Divisional Round playoff game against the Houston Texans in the AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Texans 41-28. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

It’s no secret the team’s defense and now the offense needs to fill in a big a gap, and with relatively good depth in this year’s draft still on the board, the Patriots is in a position to cause some damage to any of our opponents once the needs are addressed at:

• Wide Receiver – it’s the most obvious and talked-about position need. Even with the addition of Michael Jenkins, Donald Jones and Danny Amedola, it’s not going to cut it as depth and vertical treat is much needed. Terrance Williams, Baylor; Justin Hunter, Tennessee; Quinton Patton, Louisiana Tech, Robert Woods, USC or Aaron Dobson, Marshall would be a great option.
• Defensive Back – even with the addition of Adrian Wilson and the re-signing of Aqib Talib and Kyle Arrington and the return of Alfonzo Dennard, there’s no harm in supplementing the defensive back position. Johnthan Banks, Mississippi St.; Jamar Taylor, Boise St.; and Leon McFadden, San Diego St., wouldn’t be a bad addition.
• Defense End – adding an explosive defense end to go with Chandler Jones sounds like a scary defense to compete with. My favorite on the board is Florida State, Cornellius (Tank) Carradine. Although he suffered a torn ACL, the talent, strength and athleticism is there and so is his speed. I would also take Texas A&M Damontre Moore in a heartbeat.
• Defense Tackle – since my target (Sylvester Williams) was selected by the Denver Broncos, there is a prize still on the board and Georgia, John Jenkins would be the perfect fit to help out Vince Wilfork and perhaps, to hold a permanent spot for our awesome aging Wilfork. An explosive nose tackle with experience in a 3-4 scheme, he overwhelms single blocks just with his massive frame at 6’4”, 346 lbs. I also would keep an eye on Purdue product Kawann Short.

Let’s stay tuned for what should be another spectacular draft evening for the Patriots with cool updates on MusketFire

Friday, April 26 – 6:30 p.m. ET; Round 2 – 7 minutes per selection, Round 3 – 5 minutes per selection

Round 2 Pick 20, 52^nd overall (from Vikings); Round 2 Pick 27, 59^th overall;

Round 3 Pick 21, 83^rd overall (from Vikings) and Round 3 Pick 29 91^st overall.

Follow Celia Westbrook on Twitter @celiawestbrook