2017 NFL Draft: New England Patriots seven-round mock

By John Buhler | Mar 8, 2017

Jan 2, 2017; Arlington, TX, USA; Wisconsin Badgers offensive lineman Ryan Ramczyk (65) in action during the game against the Western Michigan Broncos in the 2017 Cotton Bowl game at AT&T Stadium. The Badgers defeat the Broncos 24-16. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

2 of 5

Nov 26, 2016; Madison, WI, USA; Wisconsin Badgers linebacker T.J. Watt (42) celebrates following a sack during the second quarter against the Minnesota Golden Gophers at Camp Randall Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /

Second Round

T.J. Watt

Linebacker, Wisconsin Badgers

Would the Patriots double-down on top-tier Badgers draft prospects? You better believe it! Whomever ends up drafting linebacker T.J. Watt in day two is going to get a player that just wants it more than everybody else.

Watt is the younger brother of Houston Texans defensive end J.J. Watt. He may not ever become as dynamic as his older brother, but don’t try to tell the younger Watt brother that; he won’t listen to that nonsense.

While he could stay in-state and play for the Green Bay Packers, Watt seems to encapsulate the “Do Your Job” mantra associated with the Patriots. New England has run through linebackers at an alarming rate of late. Might they completely overhaul that position group this offseason through both free agency and the draft?

Watt is not projected to go in the first round like his older brother. The Patriots will wisely use that notion of him being overlooked in this draft process to their advantage. Not to say he’ll be a Tedy Bruschi up the middle for the Patriots, but Watt could be something in the middle of the Patriots defense for a long time.

Home/New England Patriots