Patriots Mock Draft: 7-round mock with all SEC players

Just looking at his stats and status as the starting middle linebacker for one of the best defenses in the country, there is a very good chance that Rice ends up being drafted higher than this. However, due to his comparatively small frame and overaggressiveness that can open up big plays, Rice could start to slide a little. If he ends up available here, Belichick shouldn’t think twice.

Georgia’s defense might have future pros at every level, but it was Rice who was organizing that unit. With a lack of linebacker depth forcing Belichick to rely on more dime packages this season, adding Rice could allow the defense to set up in a greater variety of looks, all the while adding a tremendous athlete with speed and plenty of boom in his shoulderpads.