2015 NFL Draft: Evaluating Roster Chances of Every New England Patriots’ Pick
Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Round 6, 202nd Overall: TE A.J. Derby
Roster chances: 3.33/10
Derby has a long way to go before he can even be considered a serous candidate to make the final roster. It’s not that Derby isn’t a good player—some view him as a “mini-Gronk” —but the tight end position is already pretty crowded in New England.
Obviously, Rob Gronkowski isn’t going anywhere. Neither is free agent addition Scott Chandler, who actually stands taller than Gronk at 6-foot-7. You also can’t forget about the fruit of the Logan Mankins trade, Tim Wright, who was an important cog in the Pats’ aerial attack last season. Oh, and then there is Michael Hoomanawanui, a solid run blocker and recipient of the occasional Tom Brady pass.
For Derby to even sniff the roster, he will have to improve on the fundamentals of playing the tight end position. He’s only played one year of tight end in his football career.
Consider the chances of Derby suiting up for the Pats in Week 1 slim to none.
Next: Darryl Roberts