New England Patriots: Five Players They Should Draft

The 2014 NFL Draft is still three months away, but it is never too early to start talking about who the New England Patriots should draft. While the biggest concern in New England should be getting healthy, there are still plenty of holes in this roster, and I think addressing them through the draft is always a good place to start.

Here are five guys that I believe the Pats should draft, come April.

Nov 16, 2013; Arlington, TX, USA; Texas Tech Red Raiders tight end Jace Amaro (22) celebrates his second touchdown catch in the first quarter against the Baylor Bears at AT

1. Jace Amaro TE 

I don’t think Amaro would last until the 29th pick, but being able to select him would be a huge acquisition for New England. Amaro is a guy that could fill the “Hernandez” role in this offense, as he is a big guy, but as he showed throughout his career at Texas Tech, his athleticism enables him to beat just about any coverage thrown at him. If Rob Gronkowski can return for the 2014 season, the Pats offense could return to their dominating ways, if Amaro is added to the mix.

Jan 4, 2014; Birmingham, AL, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores wide receiver Jordan Matthews (87) carries the ball for a touchdown during the 2014 Compass Bowl against the Houston Cougars at Legion Field. Mandatory Credit: Marvin Gentry-USA TODAY Sports

2. Jordan Matthews WR

Every year it seems like the Patriots are in need of a big bodied wide receiver, and 2014 is no different. Julian Edelman, Danny Amendola, and Shane Vereen cover the middle of the field very well, but aside from a few raw young guys, there is no outside threats on this team. Matthews could be the next Randy Moss in New England, as his impressive physical stature, and production at Vanderbilt, is extremely attractive.

Dec 7, 2013; Waco, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns defensive end Jackson Jeffcoat (44) during the game against the Baylor Bears at Floyd Casey Stadium. The Baylor Bears defeated the Texas Longhorns 30-10 to win the Big 12 championship. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

3. Jackson Jeffcoat DE

I am a huge Texas Longhorn fan, so I have had the opportunity to watch Jeffcoat play in the college ranks, for quite some time. New England does have a solid starting pair of defensive ends, but in today’s NFL, you can never have enough pass rushers. I am not sure if Jeffcoat will fall to the Pats, but if he does, they would be wise to snatch him up, as his physical traits, along with his pass rushing skills could make a big impact in Foxboro.

Dec 27, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive lineman Ra

4. Ra’shede Hageman DT

Hopefully the Patriots get Vince Wilfork and Tommy Kelly back for the 2014 season, but as we saw this past year, having depth at the defensive tackle position is extremely important. Once again, I don’t know if Hageman will be available at pick 29, but he would be one hell of a selection if he is still on the board. This kid is 6’6, and weighs in at 318 pounds. I haven’t watched too much of him, but based on what I have seen, he can bring a pass rushing presence to the interior defensive line, while also standing strong in run defense.

Jan 6, 2014; Pasadena, CA, USA; Auburn Tigers running back Tre Mason (21) carries the ball defended by Florida State Seminoles defensive back Lamarcus Joyner (20) during the first half of the 2014 BCS National Championship game at the Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

5. Lamarcus Joyner CB

While Joyner is small by NFL standards, I think he has what it takes to make it in this league. He is known for his aggressive play, and big hits, but he also has the physical skills to play some man coverage. What many scouts like so much about him, is his versatility. Not only can he play cornerback, but he plays very as a safety. We all know that Bill Belichick loves versatile players, making Joyner a prime candidate to become a New England Patriot, in the upcoming draft.