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3 top mid-round defensive line options for Patriots in 2022 NFL Draft

By Michael DeVito

Sep 26, 2021; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Jameis Winston (2) is sacked by New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore (90) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 26, 2021; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New Orleans Saints quarterback Jameis Winston (2) is sacked by New England Patriots defensive tackle Christian Barmore (90) during the second half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS – NOVEMBER 6: John Ridgeway #99 of the Arkansas Razorbacks celebrates after making a tackle during a game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Donald W. Reynolds Stadium on November 6, 2021 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Bulldogs 31-28. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)
FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS – NOVEMBER 6: John Ridgeway #99 of the Arkansas Razorbacks celebrates after making a tackle during a game against the Mississippi State Bulldogs at Donald W. Reynolds Stadium on November 6, 2021 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Razorbacks defeated the Bulldogs 31-28. (Photo by Wesley Hitt/Getty Images) /

2. Patriots could draft Arkansas DT John Ridgeway

Arkansas’ big defensive tackle John Ridgeway is another intriguing prospect. Listed at 6-5 1/8 and 321 pounds by Bleacher Report, Ridgeway would be a big obstacle in the middle of anyone’s defensive line. The Patriots can certainly use that size to compliment the power and speed of Christian Barmore.

Bleacher Report describes him this way:

"Ridgeway’s tall frame and long arms enable him to consistently get the first strike on his opponents. He also packs a mean punch in his hands, regularly shocking offensive linemen back a step or two upon contact… Ridgeway’s tenacity and surprising flexibility show up as a pass-rusher, too. He is not dynamic in any way, but between his initial punch, the energy to keep his legs churning and his functional flexibility, he often finds a way to free himself from blocks to help rally on late sacks. Ridgeway at least clears the bar for pass-rushing as a nose guard."

While nose tackle is not a position this space feels the Patriots need (Barmore plays his pocket-crushing best on the nose), the Patriots seem to feel otherwise, and if they seek a nose tackle, Ridgeway may be just the guy.

Right now that position is being handled by Davon Godchaux, who underwhelmed in his first season in New England in 2021.

Having Ridgeway push Godchaux for playing time is a good thing. Additionally, if he can beat out the veteran to start, it may open opportunities as noted to free up cap space by releasing or trading Godchaux.

If Ridgeway or another middle-round choice can make that happen, it’s a big plus for the Pats’ team-building and for the future of the D-line.

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