3. The Patriots took a home run swing and a conservative cut at tight end, linebacker and guard
The Patriots doubled up a tight end, outside linebacker and guard. But they didn’t make those selections redundant, per se. Each player seemed to compliment the other, with one pick seeming conservative and another being more of a risk. Here’s how we figure…
Michigan EDGE Josh Uche: Home run swing — He played roughly 50% of the snaps for the Wolverines, and yet had 8.5 sacks. Why didn’t he play more? What happens if the Patriots play him more? Surely, he’ll start on third downs as a situations pass-rusher.
Alabama EDGE Anfernee Jennings: Conservative swing — He was an every down linebacker for the Crimson Tide, and could be an immediate contributor on early downs for the Patriots as a run defender. His upside as a pass rusher seems limited, however.
UCLA TE Devin Asiasi: Conservative swing — His game translates clearly to the NFL as a seam-stretching tight end, even if he has too much of a lumbering playing style.
Virginia Tech TE Dalton Keene: Home run swing — Many of his receptions came out of the backfield from the fullback or h-back position. How will he fare running downfield routes as a tight end? His athleticism speaks to high upside, but he’s got to prove he can separate on routes from the slot.
Michigan OG Michael Onwenu: Conservative swing — These picks are both sixth-rounders, so it’s possible neither makes the team. But Ownenu has good fundamentals, particularly as a pass-protector, even if his athleticism is limited.
Wake Forrest OG Justin Herron: Home run swing — He has good athleticism but will have to transition from tackle to guard, if he’s going to stick in the NFL.
For the most part, both players can succeed at their respective positions. It’s just that they’ll start out complimenting each other.