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New England Patriots: 2017 Seven-Round Mock Draft

By Nick Ziegler

Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 28, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; A general view of the stage and podium before the 2016 NFL Draft at the Auditorium Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports /
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New England Patriots
Mar 2, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Louisiana State offensive lineman Ethan Pocic speaks to the media during the 2017 combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

C, ETHAN POCIC, LSU

With the fourth-round pick in the mock draft, the Patriots addressed a need on the offensive line by drafting Ethan Pocic from LSU. Even though the offensive line for the Patriots was great this past season, adding young depth to the unit is always important.

For the Patriots to truly be successful, quarterback Tom Brady needs to be protected. When Brady has time, the Patriots are a hard team to beat, as he can pick a defense apart down the field.

Starting center David Andrews has been a good player for New England since they signed him, but having a backup for him is important. Last season, Andrews was good as a run and pass blocker, and at 24-years-old, he should be the center for the Patriots for years to come.

The selection of Pocic is another solid value pick for the Patriots. CBS has him ranked as the second best overall center, and he is projected to be drafted in the third round. Having him on the board late in the fourth round made him an easy selection.

Even though it isn’t a major need for the Patriots, adding another offensive lineman for depth doesn’t hurt. The fact that he was on the board in this mock was surprising and too good to pass up.

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