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2016 NFL Draft: 5 positions Patriots will 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. 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. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports /
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2016 NFL Draft Joe Haeg
Jan 26, 2016; Mobile, AL, USA; North squad offensive tackle Joe Haeg of North Dakota State (59) blocks in a drill during Senior Bowl practice at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Glenn Andrews-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Offensive tackle

Here is the Patriots’ current group of offensive tackles:

Starters: Sebastian Vollmer, Nate Solder

Depth: Marcus Cannon, Cameron Fleming, LaAdrian Waddle

Whilte Vollmer and Solder are solid starters, there are serious depth concerns here. Also, it should be noted that Vollmer turns 32 this summer and is on the downswing of his career; he will have to be replaced in the not-too-distant future.

Cannon is probably the best backup, but you don’t want him matched up against the Von Millers of the NFL on a regular basis.

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Fleming, who doubled-majored in aeronautics and astronautics at Stanford, has yet to establish himself as a reliable backup in two seasons with the Patriots. He’s alright in spot duty, but when the injury bug hit the offensive line last season, he struggled.

As for Waddle, his best days are behind him. Ever since tearing his ACL in 2014, he hasn’t been the same player.

Clearly, the Patriots need upgraded depth and a starter for down the road post-Vollmer. Arguably the most vital position in terms of Tom Brady’s health, tackle should be a top priority for the Pats in the 2016 NFL Draft.

Target: Joe Haeg

Next: 2. Cornerback

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