New England Patriots 7 Round Mock Draft 3.0

Oct 19, 2013; South Bend, IN, USA; Southern California Trojans center Marcus Martin (66) during the game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame defeated USC 14-10. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Round Three, Pick 85 (Via Green Bay): Marcus Martin (C, USC)

The Patriots here fix up that center position, and create serious competition for Ryan Wendell in training camp. Most Patriots fans have told me all about how the interior offensive line is a huge need, and while I don’t really agree with them, I do think that it’s something that could be upgraded, if the right pieces are available. Marcus Martin is a player, if available in this spot in round three, would definitely be a right piece. Arguably the best center in the draft, Martin has been slowed down by some knee injuries, but it’s not thought to be anything major. If anything, it would hopefully cause him to drop to around this spot in the draft. The one Patriots fans will love about Martin, is his size. At 6’3 and 320 pounds, he’s not going to get bullied around like Wendell did last year, and has an incredible motor, and great toughness as well. Martin is the kind of player that immediately makes your offensive line better.

Other Options: C Travis Swanson, DE/OLB Chris Smith