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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 /
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Joe Haeg
Jan 26, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; North squad offensive tackle Joe Haeg of North Dakota State (59) stretches before the start of Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports /

4. Joe Haeg

Considering the fact that Sebastian Vollmer isn’t getting any younger and the poor depth behind Nate Solder and Vollmer at tackle, the Patriots need to invest in the position. An upgrade over the likes of Marcus Cannon, Cameron Fleming and LaAdrian Waddle isn’t just possible—it’s paramount.

According to Draft Insider’s Tony Pauline, the Patriots have North Dakota State tackle Haeg on their mind these days.

Athletic for a big man at 6-foot-6, 293 yards, Haeg looks the part of the next stalwart Patriots’ offensive lineman. He has humble beginnings, having walked on to the Bison as a freshman in 2011; he leaves North Dakota State with two All-American nods.

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What the Patriots look for in offensive linemen they draft, however, is more than personal accolades. The Patriots love to select offensive linemen who have helped pilot their college teams to championships. Just look at recent picks like Bryan Stork and Tre’ Jackson, both of whom were part of national championship-winning Florida State teams.

As for Haeg, he has won five consecutive national championships with the Bison. You can see why the Patriots are so keen on Haeg.

Next: 3. WR Braxton Miller

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