New England Patriots Seven Round Mock Draft 5.0

Aug 31, 2013; Nashville, TN, USA; Kentucky Wildcats linebacker Avery Williamson (40) recovers a fumble by Western Kentucky Hilltoppers running back Antonio Andrews (not pictured) during the first half at LP Field. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports

Round Six, Pick 198: AC Leonard (TE, Tennessee State)

AC Leonard is a very interesting pick here, because he’s one of a number of tight ends with amazing talents at tight end, but another that has some attitude problems. At one point, Leonard was a highly touted player out of Florida, before he was arrested a few times and transferred to the smaller Tennessee State. While his attitude is an issue, his talent definitely isn’t. Leonard is your classic “move” tight end, capable of lining up all over the field, and making yardage after the catch, similar to what Aaron Hernandez could do before his defining moment last year. Leonard would help return a dimension to the Patriots that they missed last year, and would compliment earlier pick Troy Niklas and incumbent Rob Gronkowski nicely.

Round Six, Pick 206: Avery Williamson (ILB, Kentucky)

Avery Williamson will fill a big need in the Patriots defense, that left when Dane Fletcher signed in Tampa Bay. The Patriots already grabbed Ryan Shazier in the first round, and now they need better depth, and Williamson can provide that. Williamson is a very quick and smart coverage linebacker, with good athleticism and decent size. He will also be able to contribute on special teams, and that will be valued highly by Bill Belichick. Williamson fills the need of a cover linebacker nicely.

Round Seven: Pick 244: Larry Webster (DE, Bloomsburg)

Webster is one of those big project, but potentially bit reward kind of players if the time is put into developing him properly. Webster is a major pass rushing threat, and at 6’6, 250, it’s pretty easy to see why. Coming from a smaller school, Webster hasn’t gotten the same kind of press that the other defensive ends have gotten, but he has that potential to become a solid designated pass rusher in the NFL. Able to stand up and sit down on the line, he also provides some solid versatility. Webster will take a few years, but patience could pay off. And after all, it’s not like you’re going to find instant impact players in the seventh round like Alfonzo Dennard every year.