Musket Fire
FanSided

5 players Patriots should target in 2016 NFL Draft

By Connor Fulton

Nov 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back C.J. Prosise (20) runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Notre Dame won 42-30. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back C.J. Prosise (20) runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Notre Dame won 42-30. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 5
Next
C.J. Prosise
Nov 7, 2015; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish running back C.J. Prosise (20) runs the ball against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first quarter at Heinz Field. Notre Dame won 42-30. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /

Based on the positional needs of running back, offensive tackle, pass catcher, cornerback and inside linebacker, here are five prospects the New England Patriots should target in the 2016 NFL Draft:

5. C.J. Prosise

If the Patriots don’t sign a power back like Chris Ivory in free agency, then they should seriously consider selecting Prosise in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Standing at 6-foot-1, 220 pounds, Prosise is one of the more physically imposing running backs in the 2016 class. Interestingly, Prosise is relatively new to the position having played safety and wide receiver for Notre Dame earlier in his collegiate career. But when Tarean Folston sustained a knee injury in the 2015 opener, the Fighting Irish handed the ball carrying duties to Prosise, and he flourished.

Super Bowl 50: 13 players over 30

Much like LeGarrette Blount (who the Patriots should cut ties with this offseason), Prosise almost always gains an extra half yard or more while being tackled. Prosise is extremely hard to stop, and he bursts through holes after being patient enough to let them open up in front of him.

Prosise is projected to be taken off the board in the middle rounds. Considering how long running backs stay available in drafts these days, don’t be surprised if the Patriots are able to nab him in the fifth or even sixth round.

Next: 4. OT Joe Haeg

Home/Patriots Draft