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2017 NFL Draft: New England Patriots seven-round mock

By John Buhler

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
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 /
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Jan 2, 2017; New Orleans , LA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Samaje Perine (32) carries the ball for a touchdown against the Auburn Tigers in the fourth quarter of the 2017 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 2, 2017; New Orleans , LA, USA; Oklahoma Sooners running back Samaje Perine (32) carries the ball for a touchdown against the Auburn Tigers in the fourth quarter of the 2017 Sugar Bowl at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Mandatory Credit: John David Mercer-USA TODAY Sports /

Fourth Round

137

Samaje Perine

Running Back, Oklahoma Sooners

New England has a deep and terrifying running back corps. It was a big reason that the Patriots were able to put together a Super Bowl winning season last year. However, one of those big pieces will be hitting free agency this spring in LeGarrette Blount.

Could New England bring back Blount? The Patriots might, as Blount is the big bruiser Belichick needs to pound the rock. However, one has to believe that the tread is wearing thin on his tires. Finding a power back of Blount’s caliber in the draft is tough because of the spread offenses often found in college.

One guy that could be available for the Patriots to draft in the fourth round would be Oklahoma Sooners running back Samaje Perine. He had a very prolific career in Norman, but didn’t get driven into the ground in Lincoln Riley’s Air Raid offense.

Oklahoma became increasingly passing centric in Perine’s last two years in school. He also split time in the Oklahoma backfield with the controversial Joe Mixon. Perine impressed with his great combination of power and speed at the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine. He could be a real beast in the New England backfield if the Patriots take him at No. 137.

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