New England Patriots: 2016 NFL Draft Do-Over
Round 6, Pick 214: RB Dwayne Washington
Original Pick: LB Elandon Roberts
The Detriot Lions took Washington running back Dwayne Washington with the 236th overall pick in the 2016 draft. In his rookie season, the seventh-rounder started two games, stacking up 90 rushes for 265 yards and one touchdown. In his ‘Draft Profile’, NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein writes:
"“[Washington] has enough early wiggle. Has athletic traits that cannot be ignored. Former wide receiver with ability to destroy linebackers matched up on him out of the backfield. Able to threaten the seam as pass catcher.” – Lance Zierlein"
Washington would have competed with James White and Dion Lewis as New England’s pass-catching back. Additionally, he would offer injury insurance for both.
Round 6, Pick 221: G Ted Karras
Original Pick: Same
Ted Karras served as offensive line depth in his rookie season with New England. He was active for all of the Patriots’ sixteen games and started one. According to Pro Football Reference, Karras played 9.6% of the team’s offensive snaps and 18% of the team’s special teams snaps in 2016. In Week 1, he played 80.3% of New England’s offensive snaps against the Arizona Cardinals.
Round 7, Pick 225: WR Devin Lucien
Original Pick: Same
Devin Lucien was released at the end of training camp and spent 2016 on New England’s practice squad. He’s impressed so far in 2017, standing out in the Patriots OTAs and minicamp. Lucien ranked number one on Pro Football Focus’ ‘Top 10 Sleeper Prospects For The 2016 NFL Draft‘ where PFF Senior Analyst Steve Palazzolo (@PFF_Steve) writes of the receiver:
"“There are a number of receivers in this class who project as good NFL players, and that depth has pushed Lucien down draft boards, making him a potentially excellent value. He has strong hands, and plenty of experience adjusting to poorly-thrown passes at Arizona State, so he can make plays even when covered.” – Steve Palazzolo"