Patriots rock the NFL in this post-Bill Belichick 7-round mock draft

With their 2nd third-round pick at pick No. 74 ...

The last premium pick the Patriots possess, their fifth, NO. 74 was acquired from the Falcons. But, in keeping with one of the hallmarks of this draft, the Pats once again take advantage of a situation and swing a trade. This time they trade down just one spot to pick No. 75. They send that pick to Chicago for their No. 75 pick and their 122nd in the fourth round. This is an astute move.

At pick No. 75, the Patriots continue their offensive fireworks display and begin to shore up another position of need, the tight end. With both Hunter Henry (a possible retainee) and Mike Gesicki out of contract, the need is great. They select Ja'Tavion Sanders, a tight end from Texas.

The 6'4", 256-pounder caught 45 passes for 682 yards and two TDs in 2023. Nfldraftbuzz.com has this to say about the Longhorn tight end,

"Ja'Tavion Sanders has demonstrated the attributes of a dynamic receiving threat, showcasing the ability to create mismatches in the passing game and stretch the field vertically. His skill set suggests he would thrive in a spread offense system, where his receiving skills would be a major asset, where he could quickly put up big numbers and present a height-weight-speed mismatch for pro defenses... His potential as a super dependable who hardly ever drops an on-target pass adds another layer to his profile, making him a valuable target for quarterbacks looking for an outlet. Looking ahead to the 2024 draft, Sanders is likely to draw attention as a day-two prospect. He presents a compelling combination of immediate impact potential in the passing game and room for growth as a blocker. Sanders is the kind of player who could make an immediate impact as a receiver and transform an offense, he's the second-best tight end in this year's class."

'Nuf said. This is another excellent pick for the Patriots whose tight end room is thin if not almost bare. Should the team decide to cut ties with both Henry and Gesicki, then adding talent to the position is essential. They now have taken a very positive step in that direction.