The additions to defense continue for the Patriots, after a few trades and seeing some solid pass rushers go before they were on the clock. They finally chose Florida State defensive tackle Joshua Farmer with the 137th overall pick.
He was not on the short list of players most fans were hoping for, but after seeing players like David Walker and Jack Sawyer go several picks ahead, there was no reason to pass on Farmer. In fact, the Patriots traded up to get him, proving they were hoping to add another threat to their improving defensive line.
Although there might be some initial skepticism surrounding Farmer's fit, he was on many analysts' draft boards, and several felt he would be a great addition for the Patriots. Even draft expert Mel Kiper hyped the selection when the announcement was made, emphasizing he was the highest-ranked remaining player on his infamous draft board at the time.
Farmer will now join an improved defensive line that includes impressive signings like linebacker Robert Spillane and defensive tackle Milton Williams, who many believe will be key to the rookie's success this fall.
Joshua Farmer sat and talked with Milton Williams for 30 minutes during his visit with the Patriots
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) April 26, 2025
They then added another pass rusher by selecting LSU EDGE Bradyn Swinson at No. 146.
The Patriots make the right picks while prioritizing the defense in Rounds 4 and 5
Making their day three selections even better, the Patriots adding Swinson to their defensive line couldn't have been more applauded. After choosing Farmer at the end of Round 4, they really put their pass rush over the top with Swinson, who is a pure dominating threat to opposing quarterbacks.
What makes the pick even more exciting is that, to many draft experts, the LSU alum was a top-100 pick. How he fell into their laps at 146 is hard to fathom, but there's no need to question it now that he's the next New England Patriot.
With the 146th pick in the NFL Draft the New England Patriots have selected edge rusher Bradyn Swinson. #NFLDraft2025
— Patriots Lead (@Patriots_Lead) April 26, 2025
New England is dominating this draft. The LSU product has the potential to be a very productive pass rusher in this league. #NEPats pic.twitter.com/GUbCmXJGar
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Swinson's final season with the Tigers was his most impressive, as he recorded 58 combined tackles, 13 for a loss, 8.5 sacks, three passes defended, and two forced fumbles. He showed improvement every season and will benefit greatly from the stellar coaching Vrabel brought in this offseason, along with the talented players that now make up the defensive line.