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NFL Draft: Revisiting and Grading the New England Patriots 2015 NFL Draft Picks

By Hal Bent

May 27, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft (left) and president Jonathan Kraft (right) pose with first-round draft choice defensive lineman Malcom Brown at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
May 27, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft (left) and president Jonathan Kraft (right) pose with first-round draft choice defensive lineman Malcom Brown at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports /
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6th Round (202nd Overall, Via CLE) – AJ Derby (TE, Arkansas)

Grade: C

One Liner: Promising athlete with practice squad in his future.

New England Patriots NFL Draft
Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

Derby remains an intriguing prospect having been selected after having just one year of experience at tight end in college. He fit the belichick model with having played linebacker and quarterback before converting to tight end. He started just seven games but has ideal size at six-foot-four and 255 pounds. His athleticism and speed leapt off the limited college film study and his understanding of defenses and the passing game should help his development.

Derby was stashed on injured reserve and for a while appeared to be in position to be a key contributor in 2016. However, the trade for Martellus Bennett and signing of Clay Harbor have shored up the tight end position behind Rob Gronkowski. Derby has an uphill battle for a roster spot at training camp this summer.

Next: 7th Round (247th Overall, Via GB) – Darryl Roberts

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