2021 NFL Draft: New England Patriots 7-round mock

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 19: Kadarius Toney #1 of the Florida Gators reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half of the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 19, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GEORGIA - DECEMBER 19: Kadarius Toney #1 of the Florida Gators reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Alabama Crimson Tide during the first half of the SEC Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 19, 2020 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images) /
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Patriots mock draft, Kellen Mond
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – JANUARY 02: Kellen Mond #11 of the Texas A&M Aggies directs the offense against the North Carolina Tar Heels during the first half of the Capital One Orange Bowl at Hard Rock Stadium on January 02, 2021 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

142. Pick Analysis. Quarterback. Kellen Mond. player. 47. Scouting Report. Texas A&M

The odds favor the Patriots moving around the draft board to select a quarterback much earlier than this. If they don’t, landing Mond in Round 5 could turn into a terrific consolation prize.

The former Aggies’ standout doesn’t project to be a high-end starter, but he’s a prospect with a very high floor. He showed real toughness during his collegiate career making tough throws under pressure. It’s possible his mechanics will look even better if he’s given adequate protection at the pro level.

The ideal scenario for the Patriots would be to give Mond a season or two to learn behind a veteran starter. Signing a stopgap like Ryan Fitzpatrick would be perfect. Mond isn’t going to be ready to lead a team to the playoffs in his rookie season.

Over the long haul, he has the sort of toughness and accuracy Belichick demands from his quarterbacks. He’s not going to revolutionize the Patriots’ offense, but he can keep it on schedule if surrounded by enough talent.