New England Patriots
Grade: A
Best pick: N’Keal Harry (WR, Arizona St.)
Questionable pick: Hjalte Froholdt (OG, Arkansas)
Sleeper pick: Damien Harris (RB, Alabama)
It’s not often that a Super Bowl-winning team entered the next draft with the most draft capital, but such was just the case with the New England Patriots. This year, the Pats capitalized on an early scramble for quarterbacks and edge rushers and wound up with my best receiver in the draft with the final pick of the first round. New England’s connection with Sun Devil players continues to be strong and Harry’s size, blocking ability and Velcro-like hands will be an excellent fit for the New England offense going forward.
To be completely honest, it’s difficult to nitpick this class for New England from my perspective, so the only “questionable” pick comes down to Arkansas’ Hjalte Froholdt. Undoubtedly, the Pats’ Arkansas connection with Bret Bielema helped in the information-gathering process and even though it may have been a bit earlier than I expected him to go, Froholdt is still a very good fit for what New England looks for in its offensive linemen.
As far as sleepers go at the running back position, look no further than Alabama’s Damien Harris. He flew under the radar with the draft board ascent of teammate Josh Jacobs, but don’t be surprised if Harris winds up as one of the best backs in the class. Had he entered the draft last season, he may have been a top 50 selection but instead slides to the back half of the third round, where he’ll be an excellent fit in the New England running game.