Although all signs point to the Patriots leaning toward taking a defensive player with their first-round pick, there is a chance that an offensive superstar falls into their lap at No. 31, or even within reach, that could entice them to trade up.
One of those players could be tight end Kenyon Sadiq, the universally considered top prospect at the position of this year's draft class. Because the Patriots need a succession plan for Hunter Henry, who is entering the final year of his contract this fall, taking the next TE1 makes a lot of sense.
However, given where they are on the board, it's more likely than not that Sadiq will be long gone by the time they're up. In fact, there's a good chance one of their divisional rivals will take him just a few picks before, as the tight end is considered a good fit for what the Dolphins need and are looking for.
The Dolphins could crush Patriots' fans' dream of landing the top tight end in this year's draft
Other than the number of draft analysts who consider Sadiq a player on Miami's radar, team expert Brian Miller of Phin Phanatic lists the tight end as one of their top-5 choices for the first round on FanSided's interactive big board.
The Dolphins have two picks, No. 11 and No. 30, so they will have an opportunity to get Sadiq twice if they like him.
But it's more likely they'll take him right before he could be on the board for the Patriots, and that would be devastating for fans hoping to see a young superstar in the making head to the Patriots' direct competition instead.
Fortunately, other tight ends are being discussed as top talent as well, and there are rumors that the Patriots are particularly interested in Eli Stowers from Vanderbilt, who is projected to fall to the second round.
Whether he will be available when the Patriots pick again at No. 63 is hard to predict, but they could trade up if they feel he is the right guy for the job, especially seeing Sadiq almost certainly long gone.
Regardless of what eventually happens, it's clear that tight end needs to be a priority in this year's draft, and if they are lucky enough to have a name like Sadiq, or any other players considered to be near the top of the class, fall into their lap, the Patriots have to pounce. Hopefully, it won't be a case of snagging one of the best while watching a rival in the division select one, too.
Add us as a preferred source on Google