2015 NFL Draft: Evaluating Roster Chances of Every New England Patriots’ Pick
Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Round 4, 131st Overall: OL Shaq Mason
Roster chances: 8.7/10
First and foremost, Mason will make an immediate impact in the Patriots’ ground attack. He is simply the best run-blocking offensive lineman in the entire 2015 draft class.
In addition, the Georgia Tech product brings that trait Bill Belichick loves in all of his players: versatility. There is not a spot on the offensive line that Mason cannot play, including center.
It’s unlikely he will start in Week 1 against the Steelers, but expect Mason to contend with projected starting right tackle Sebastian Vollmer in training camp. To earn a backup position at either of the tackle positions, Mason will have to prove himself among veterans Marcus Cannon and Caylin Hauptmann and second-year man Cameron Fleming.
All in all, Mason’s roster chances are very good. His excellence as a run blocker will put him in contention for a starting spot, and his versatility will ensure that he at least makes the team.
Next: Joe Cardona