The linebacker corps instantly went from a deep group to a dire position of need for the New England Patriots this offseason.
New England currently is carrying Dont’a Hightower, Ja’Whaun Bentley and Terez Hall on the roster after losing Kyle Van Noy, Jamie Collins and Elandon Roberts in free agency. Collins and Van Noy excelled in stopping the run and making life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
Playing the linebacker position in New England could hold many different roles and they simply don’t have the depth to fill all these holes. Some Patriots linebackers are there to stop the run or rush the quarterback, others specialize in dropping back in coverage.
The 2020 NFL Draft is full of versatile and gifted linebackers, giving the Patriots options throughout all seven rounds. Here’s an option for the Patriots in each round of the draft.
Round 1 – Zack Baun, Wisconsin
Zack Baun out of Wisconsin would be the perfect fit in New England’s defense. He’s 6-foot-3, 240 pounds and plays a similar game to Van Noy, rushing the passer at an efficient rate and having the ability to drop back in coverage when necessary. Baun recorded 12.5 sacks, 76 tackles and 19.5 tackles for loss last season. The Patriots have the No. 23 pick in the draft and could very likely find Baun on the board.
Round 2 – Malik Harrison, Ohio State
Malik Harrison, two-year starter out of Ohio State, has a nose for the ball that would work out tremendously in Bill Belichick’s defense. Harrison led the Buckeyes in tackles last season with 75 and has the speed to drop back in coverage when necessary. Harrison would provide a four-down linebacker who prides himself on hitting hard and finishing tackles. The Patriots don’t have a second round pick, but it’s possible Harrison drops to the third round or the Patriots trade picks around to get into the second round.