New England Patriots are perfect landing spot for Sony Michel
Sony Michel landed in the perfect spot getting selected by the New England Patriots in the 2018 NFL Draft.
The New England Patriots filled a number of needs during the 2018 NFL Draft. They had weaknesses on the roster and did their best to fill those weaknesses.
In the first round, they added to their offensive line group, selecting the versatile Isaiah Wynn out of Georgia. They continued shoring up their secondary, selecting two cornerbacks, including plug-and-play slot corner, Duke Dawson.
In the middle rounds, New England found help at linebacker, arguably the weakest level of their defense. Ja’Whaun Bentley will help in the run game, while Christian Sam provides some versatility and sideline-to-sideline range.
Wide receiver Braxton Berrios, who was selected at the end of the sixth round, is considered an impact rookie by some people. He should help out immediately, filling in for Danny Amendola, who signed with the Miami Dolphins in free agency.
One selection that surprised some people was the second of their first-round picks. New England doubled down on Georiga prospects, selecting running back Sony Michel with the No. 31 overall pick.
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Running back wasn’t a pressing need for New England heading into the draft. Dion Lewis signed with the Tennessee Titans in free agency, but they signed Jeremy Hill away from the Cincinnati Bengals. The Patriots also retained Rex Burkhead and still have their third-down specialist, James White.
Despite the crowded backfield, Michel was selected as one of the players who landed in the perfect spot in the 2018 NFL Draft. ESPN’s Matt Bowen compiled a list of 10 players who landed in the perfect spots, and Michel was one of his selections.
Here is what Bowen said about Michel landing with New England.
"Michel might not log 20 total touches per game in the Patriots’ backfield rotation, but we can’t deny the fit in New England, given his running style and projected role as a pass-catcher. The Georgia star has that quick-twitch, downhill speed. Hit the hole, slice through gaps, and cut — instantly — to make defenders miss at the second level. Plus, I see upside here as a receiver out of the backfield. Get Michel involved on flat routes and angle routes, and use the screen game. The ability is there with Michel to beat linebackers after the catch, and those are the high-percentage throws we see from Tom Brady in Josh McDaniels’ offensive system. Work the ball underneath, and move the sticks. This is a good match for Michel’s talent."
Michel’s versatility is something the Patriots always look for. He can do everything out of the backfield, as he is productive as a runner or pass catcher.
However, Michel could be more of a long-term play for New England. First-round picks have four-year contracts with a fifth-year option. Mike Gillislee, Hill and Brandon Bolden are all set to hit free agency in 2019. That could leave New England short-handed in the backfield, and Michel should help fill that hole.
Next: 2018 NFL Draft First Round Grades
While the selection of Michel surprised some people, it is tough to question what New England does during the draft. They excel during that time of the year under Bill Belichick and look to have done it again this year.