The New England Patriots have had a reputation for being one of the most successful teams in the NFL when drafting new talent. In the 2023 NFL draft, the Patriots had nine picks, allowing them to fill some key positions on their roster. Let’s look at the Patriots’ draft picks and how they could impact the team in the upcoming season.
First Round (Pick 9)
With their first pick in the draft, the Patriots selected Sam Howell, a quarterback out of North Carolina. Howell is known for his strong arm and ability to create plays outside the pocket. He can potentially become a franchise quarterback for the Patriots in the future.
Second Round (Pick 41)
In the second round, the Patriots addressed their need for a defensive end by selecting Jordan Davis out of Georgia. Davis is a massive player, standing at 6’6″ and 330 pounds, and is known for his ability to stop the run and disrupt the pocket.
Third Round (Pick 73)
With their third pick in the draft, the Patriots selected David Bell, a wide receiver out of Purdue. Bell is a physical receiver who can win contested catches and create yards afterward. He should provide a significant boost to the Patriots receiving corps.
Fourth Round (Pick 105)
In the fourth round, the Patriots addressed their need for an offensive tackle by selecting Rasheed Walker out of Penn State. Walker is a technically sound player who can step in and contribute immediately.
Fifth Round (Pick 137)
The Patriots returned to the defense in the fifth round, selecting Terrel Bernard, a linebacker out of Baylor. Bernard is a versatile linebacker who can play both inside and outside and is known for his ability to rush the passer.
Sixth Round (Pick 169)
With their sixth pick in the draft, the Patriots selected Brandon Joseph, a safety out of Northwestern. Joseph is a ball-hawking safety who had six interceptions in the 2022 college football season. He should provide depth in the Patriots’ secondary.
Seventh Round (Pick 201)
In the seventh round, the Patriots addressed their need for a running back by selecting Jerrion Ealy out of Ole Miss. Ealy is a dynamic runner who can also contribute as a receiver out of the backfield.
Sixth Round (Pick 236)
With their second pick in the sixth round, the Patriots selected Tiawan Mullen, a cornerback out of Indiana. Mullen is a physical cornerback who can play press coverage and should provide depth in the Patriots’ secondary.
Seventh Round (Pick 248)
In the seventh round, the Patriots selected Khyiris Tonga, a defensive tackle, out of BYU. Tonga is a powerful player who can clog up the middle of the field and should provide depth on the Patriots’ defensive line.
Conclusion
The New England Patriots made some solid picks in the 2023 NFL draft, addressing their needs at key positions on the roster. Sam Howell has the potential to become the franchise quarterback for the team, while Jordan Davis and Rasheed Walker should contribute immediately to the defense and offensive lines, respectively. The additions of David Bell and Jerrion Ealy should also bolster the team’s receiving and running back corps. Overall, the Patriots have made excellent choices that could pay off in the upcoming season.
