This local star could be a potential Patriots first-round pick

The New England Patriots draft plan often involves scouting some of the best Northeast talent in the game, as they have added several contributors from schools like Rutgers and Penn State over the years. Bill Belichick could stay local for his first-round pick in 2022, as Boston College has one of the best offensive line prospects in this class in Zion Johnson.

A former Davidson Wildcat that dominated the Pioneer Football League, Johnson has become one of the most rock-solid linemen in the country under Jeff Hafley. Johnson was named an All-American alongside projected first-round picks Evan Neal, Ikem Ekwonu, and Tyler Linderbaum.

The Patriots may have a solid offensive line at the moment, but Isaiah Wynn might not earn a second contract in New England and both Trent Brown and Ted Karras are free agents. With free agent signings like Kendrick Bourne providing Mac Jones with some solid security blankets, why not get him some protection up front?

The Patriots clearly want to lean on their running game to keep this offense churning. If that’s how Bill Belichick wants to build his offense, why not add one of the most dynamic and consistent run-blockers in college football in Johnson with a late first-round pick?

New England Patriots draft: Zion Johnson could start as a rookie.

Johnson has allowed just one sack in over 2,300 snaps with Boston College, and he’s blown just four blocks in 756 snaps this year. While his pass-blocking numbers are solid, where he really stands out is as a road-grading run-blocker.

Due to two years in a triple-option offense at Davidson and a year under Steve Addazio’s smashmouth style, Johnson has cleaned up in this area.

Even though he stands 6-3 and clocks in at 316 pounds with some long arms, what stands out the most about Johnson is his ability to make blocks at the second level. Damien Harris and Rhamondre Stevenson could break off a few more big runs behind someone that can sustain blocks down the field and make plays in space like Johnson.

Most of Johnson’s flaws stem from some inexperience at the position. Johnson didn’t play football until he was a senior in high school, and some more advanced stunts inside have caused him some trouble from time to time. However, those things can all be fixed in a few meetings with Belichick.

With tackle-guard versatility, the Patriots could develop Johnson in one of several positions. A left guard by trade, Johnson could take advantage of some uncertainty at the position and cement himself as a starter for the next half-decade.