New England Patriots: Mock Draft 2, Pats rock with 5-round offensive extravaganza!
The New England Patriots draft status didn't change after the improbable win at Pittsburgh. Their first remains No. 2 overall and all types of options await. In this second 2024 mock draft, the Patriots and their possible new Head of Football Operations stun the entire NFL with a dramatic change of draft philosophy if not execution.
2024 NFL New England Patriots Mock Draft
The Patriots need offensive help. In the Mock Draft No. 2, they get a lot of it. The Pats need additions all over the offense, especially at offensive tackle, quarterback, and the skill positions. In this Mock, they fill some of these with aplomb. Let's go with this next version, Mock Draft 2 for 2024.
The Patriots address arguably their most pressing need overall, offensive tackle, and more specifically, offensive left tackle (OLT). The team must prepare for the future with Trent Brown's contract expiring after the 2023 season. Even if they decide to re-sign Brown, a question mark at present, they still need to draft an OLT high. In this draft, they do just that.
Round 1, pick 5: OT Joe Alt, Notre Dame
With the No. 2 pick in the draft, the Pats decide to maximize their position and trade down with Chicago for their No. 5 pick and the 71st pick in the third round. With the 5th pick, the team addresses one of their top two needs and drafts mammoth offensive tackle, Joe Alt from Notre Dame.
Here's what Pro Football reference has to say about Alt, their No. 2 tackle overall,
"At 6-foot-8, Alt brings elite size to offensive tackle. He's been even better this year at using that size and length to his advantage, yet he maintains technique with leverage to mitigate any natural weaknesses."
Alt is PFF's second-rated OT in the 2024 draft, and he fills a gigantic need with a mammoth presence. New England has traditionally (though not recently) preferred long offensive left tackles. Alt fills the bill. Whether he begins his NFL career starting Day One at ORT or if Brown is re-signed, he'll eventually be the left tackle. He's a foundational piece. And a stellar pick after an astute trade-down.