New England Patriots: Reaction to Perfect Three-Round Mock Draft

Todd McShay of ESPN.com recently did a perfect three-round mock draft for all 32 teams. What were the perfect picks for the New England Patriots?

As of now, the New England Patriots will be heading into the 2017 NFL Draft without a first or second round pick.

The Patriots traded their first-round pick to the New Orleans Saints for wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Shortly after that, the Patriots dealt their second round pick to the Carolina Panthers in exchange for Kony Ealy and the Panthers’ third round choice.

Due to the Patriots having the final pick in the second-round, the trade with the Panthers was essentially them moving back a few spots and acquiring Ealy. So far this offseason, the Patriots have been pretty close to perfect.

Many teams struggle to either retain or replace players after winning a Super Bowl, but the Patriots have done an excellent job. Despite their success so far this offseason, the NFL Draft is still important for them. In McShay’s perfect three-round mock draft, he had the Patriots taking two linebackers in the third round. Here’s what McShay said about the picks.

"Round 3 (72): Tim Williams, OLB, AlabamaRound 3 (96): Raekwon McMillan, ILB, Ohio StateWilliams comes with plenty of off-field character baggage — he admitted to failing multiple drug tests — but he’d be worth the risk for New England at pick No. 72, given his first-step quickness off the edge. McMillan improved in coverage throughout his career, but there are still questions as to whether he can be a three-down linebacker in the NFL. He does a nice job of sifting through traffic, and he has great straight-line speed (4.61 40), which shows up against the run."

While adding some depth at linebacker wouldn’t be a bad thing for the Patriots, they have a few other needs that might be addressed in the third round.

With the uncertainty about Malcolm Butler’s future past this season, a cornerback could certainly be an option for the Patriots in this round. The pick of Williams would fit a need as an edge rusher, but he does have some off-the-field issues.

Next: Patriots 7-Round Mock Draft

Since the Patriots are picking in the third round, there are no perfect prospects. However, both Williams and McMillan would help add depth to the defense. It will be interesting to see what direction the Patriots go in during the third round.