Final Patriots 7-Round Mock Draft: Building for the future the right way

2018 NFL Draft
2018 NFL Draft / Tim Warner/GettyImages
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
2 of 4
Next

Final 7-round mock draft before Round 1: Patriots build for the future

Round 2, pick No. 34: Jordan Morgan, OT, Arizona

Sticking with addressing the most important positions early in the draft, the Patriots select Jordan Morgan with their second-round pick, an impressive left tackle from Arizona with the talent to be their starter as soon as this fall.

The 6'6", 320lbs. lineman showed incredible growth over the last three years of his college career, with 2023 being his best to date. He's a solid pass blocker, which will be crucial with a rookie quarterback, allowing just three sacks and three hits during the last two seasons.

But Morgan is also great as a run blocker. With Rhamondre Stevenson hoping for an even bigger role within the offense this season and the addition of Antonio Gibson to help spread the ball around the backfield, his blocking will allow the run game to thrive more than it has in recent years due to the inconsistency of the offensive line.

He's quick on his feet and known for having a strong football IQ, which makes him a perfect fit for the Patriots.

Round 3, pick No. 68: Javon Baker, WR, UCF

Now that two of the three biggest holes have been addressed, the Patriots move on to taking a wide receiver with pick No. 68, selecting Javon Baker out of UCF.

With the departure of DeVante Parker, there is a need for a contested catch receiver on the roster, which Baker would immediately fill. He has the speed to beat defenders and create space to get open in almost any situation for his quarterback, and he consistently wins on those routes to get more opportunities to make big plays.

Baker showed improvement in his game over the last three years but remained consistent with double-digit average yards per reception and a 60% catch rate. In 2023, he had his most impressive year recording 52 receptions for 1,139 yards and seven touchdowns averaging 21.9 yards per catch.

He would be an excellent addition to the Patriots receiving corps and has the potential to be a game-changing weapon no matter who lines up at quarterback.