New England Patriots Seven Round Mock Draft 4.0

Dec 28, 2013; Bronx, NY, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive end Stephon Tuitt (7) celebrates after sacking Rutgers Scarlet Knights quarterback Chas Dodd (19) in the fourth quarter of the Pinstripe Bowl at Yankee Stadium. Notre Dame won 29-16. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

Round Two, Pick 47 (Via Cowboys): Stephon Tuitt (DL, Notre Dame)

Trade: New England sends pick 29 to Dallas for picks 47, 78 and 158

In my previous mock draft, I might have been a little over ambitious thinking that I could grab Amaro in the middle of the second round, while also getting Tuitt in the late second round with the Patriots original selection. But that’s the nice thing about having this weekly mock draft, I can make corrections. This is a much more reasonable place for Tuitt to go, because although he’s a legitimate first round pick, he definitely fits into that late first round to middle second round range. Like I have said in previous entries, Tuitt is one of my favourite prospects because of his versatility, and his incredible explosiveness, both inside and on the outside. If there’s one thing the Patriots absolutely need, it’s someone who can get that pressure and collapse a pocket, but also can get a good rush from the edge. Tuitt is about as perfect a prospect for the Patriots draft range.

Other Options: TE Jace Amaro, DE DeMarcus Lawrence