Patriots select G Layden Robinson in Round 4: Instant grade and analysis

The Patriots were on the clock almost immediately as Day 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft began on Saturday and added another strong talent to their offensive line.

Jerod Mayo and Eliot Wolf's vision is clear; they're building a solid roster around eventual starting quarterback Drake Maye, so it's hard to argue that back-to-back lineman selections are a bad decision.

After the Broncos jumped ahead of them to take pick No. 102, the Patriots selected Texas A&M guard Layden Robinson, a three-year starter in 33 games. He becomes the sixth interior lineman taken by the team since 2022, a sign that the new regime isn't in love with the depth on the current roster.

Layden Robinson's pick adds more depth to a questionable interior offensive line

Although it's not the most exciting pick, Robinson is a good addition and was impressive during his college career. He's particularly great in the run game, being labeled as a "freight train" as a run blocker.

That is likely another big factor in what Mayo and Wolf liked about him, as the hope is to continue heavily utilizing Rhamondre Stevenson on game day.

On top of that, he's also a great pass blocker, which was a significant issue throughout the 2023 season. Robinson allowed just one sack through 401 snaps in his final year with A&M. He also brings a versatility to the line that had been lacking, much like the Caedan Wallace pick to end the Patriots Day 2 selections.

If the goal was to continue building a wall around Maye for the next several years, Mayo and Wolf have accomplished that thus far. Robinson is a good pick full of potential to the point of ESPN's Louis Riddick proclaiming him as a steal. If he can be even half that good, then the Patriots are in business.

Grade: B

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