New England Patriots 7 Round Mock Draft 1.0

Jan 1, 2014; Tampa, Fl, USA; Iowa Hawkeyes linebacker Christian Kirksey (20) rushes against the LSU Tigers during the first half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Round Three, Pick 93: Christian Kirksey (OLB, Iowa)

After we got the needs of interior defensive lineman, and second tight end, we start to get some value picks, and important backups, who can start in a few years. The pick here is outside linebacker from Iowa, Christian Kirksey, one of my personal favourite prospects. The Patriots showed that they value a good fourth linebacker, evident by their interest in Wesley Woodyard before he signed for bigger money in Tennessee. Kirksey is a good coverage linebacker, and while he might not be making a bunch of big plays stopping the run, or racking up big sack numbers, he’s a very fluid athlete, able to move well on the football field, a solid tackler and can be a jack of all trades coverage player, something you know the Patriots will value highly.

Other Options: C Weston Richburg, DE Marcus Smith, OLB Jordan Tripp