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2016 NFL Draft: 5 defensive ends Patriots should consider

By Connor Fulton

Sep 12, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Carl Nassib (95) reacts after intercepting the ball during the second quarter against the Buffalo Bulls at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O
Sep 12, 2015; University Park, PA, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions defensive end Carl Nassib (95) reacts after intercepting the ball during the second quarter against the Buffalo Bulls at Beaver Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew O /
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2016 NFL Draft D.J. Pettway
Feb 28, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive lineman DJ Pettway participates in workout drills during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /

Projected round: 5-6

Character concerns surround Pettway entering the 2016 NFL Draft, as he was one of four Alabama players involved in an alleged robbery earlier in his collegiate career. But the Patriots don’t shy away from those kinds of prospects, and plus, they have demonstrated an interest in Alabama defenders. Look at Dont’a Hightower, or at 2015 seventh rounder Xzavier Dickson (although he’s on the Atlanta Falcons practice squad these days).

Reordering CB depth chart after E.J. Biggers signing

Pettway is best known for his compact, strong core and the swim move he whips out in one-on-one battles. In addition, he possesses excellent timing when it comes to knocking the ball down.

Unlikely to make the roster on his pass rushing ability alone, Pettway would have to prove to the Patriots that he is worth keeping around for special teams reasons. It is true that Pettway was always an impact player on the field goal block unit for Alabama, so that’s worth noting.

Next: 5 positions Patriots will address in 2016 NFL Draft

Stay tuned here on Musket Fire for coverage on every twist and turn in the Patriots’ offseason.

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