The New England Patriots have won nine of their first 11 games, and, contrary to the last two seasons, when they combined to win eight games, the 2026 NFL Draft is a complete afterthought. Nonetheless, way-too-early mock drafts are still coming out as we approach playoff time, and the Patriots' first-round pick is part of those mocks.
The team will need to address free agency first before they can hone in on the draft, but there are still important needs, despite the team's performance this year. Offensively, consistent running back play has been an issue, and while the receivers have been capable, they could use another alpha.
The offensive line has had its fair share of struggles, and it could look far different next year: Garrett Bradbury is PFF's 31st-ranked center, rookie Jared Wilson has struggled immensely since moving from center to guard, and releasing Mike Onwenu could save the team upwards of $17 million.
Defensively, adding to the edge would be beneficial with K'Lavon Chaisson likely to test the market. Improving on the second linebacker spot would be nice, and depth in the defensive backfield would be good to see, too.
All of these issues won't be solved in one draft, but some holes can begin to be filled. In a recent mock, ESPN's Matt Miller suggests the Patriots select Louisville receiver Chris Bell with the 30th overall pick.
If the Patriots draft a wide receiver early in 2026, it could spell trouble for Kyle Williams
Adding a wideout makes sense for New England, though their current group has impressed. Stefon Diggs has been the high-volume option, while Kayshon Boutte has broken out as one of the league's best deep threats. Mack Hollins is a physical presence that has been used in a number of different ways, while Pop Douglas has been sprinkled in as a slot option.
Nonetheless, adding Bell would take the offense to a new level. At six-foot-two, 220 pounds, the Mississippi native has career highs in catches, yards, and touchdowns this year. He's an excellent intermediate threat and has a lot of Deebo Samuel to his game. He's expected to run in the range of a 4.4 to 4.5 40-yard dash, which aligns with Samuel's 4.48.
Adding Bell would upgrade the offense, but it could also push a current rookie out of the picture: Kyle Williams. While the Washington State star had a great first career touchdown, a 72-yarder against Tampa Bay, he's had only four catches all year.
Diggs, Boutte, Hollins, and Douglas are all under contract for next year, and adding Bell would push the 2025 third rounder to WR6. Efton Chism III is likely to make a roster push, too.
Keeping seven receivers isn't ridiculous, but it would also mean Williams would primarily have a special teams role. Throughout the year, the connection between Williams and his quarterback hasn't been there, and the pair will need to work on it during the offseason to ensure his development and unlock a new piece of the offense.
He's incredibly fast and a great RAC receiver, and the addition of a first-round receiver shouldn't omit him from the offense. To ensure he develops, finding a way to get Williams more natural part of the offense should be a priority, whether the team adds Bell or not.