 The Patriots surprised everyone when they took Tavon Wilson in the 2nd round Friday night. |
The majority of the football world seemed to be stunned on Friday night, as New England made a surprising selection with their first pick of the 2nd round.
They selected free safety Tavon Wilson out of Illinois, staying with the defensive theme they've apparently decided to focus on early in this year's NFL Draft and adding more depth to their roster. Most analysts seem to consider Wilson a bit of a reach being taken that high, but obviously Bill Belichick saw something in Wilson that caused him to pull the trigger and bring him to Foxboro. The Patriots took him with the 16th pick of the 2nd round (48th overall), and they later traded out of the second after making a trade with the Packers for their 3rd round (90th overall) and a 5th (153rd).
Wilson told the media during a conference call Friday night that where he went didn't matter, and he's just going to try and do the best he can now that he's an NFL rookie.
"I feel like I worked hard enough to go (as highly as anyone)," he told CSNNE.com. "It was out of my hands. I just did my part and prayed and hoped for the best. I just try to be the best player Tavon Wilson can be."
One thing worth noting about Wilson is he's yet another collegiate captain that the Patriots have taken, which is an attribute that Belichick has said in the past is something he likes. Most scouting reports point out that he's intelligent and mentally tough, which as we know are also things that Belichick looks for.
It's also hard not to want to root for him considering what he's been through. The rookie lost both parents by the age of 12, and Jeff Howe of NESN.com has a great piece on the newest member of the Patriots who said he just wants to take care of his grandmother in the same way she took care of him after his ordeal.
The last time the Patriots went that high on a guy no one expected was when they took Sebastian Vollmer back in 2009. That one worked out pretty well, so needless to say let's hope Wilson uses this as a big opportunity to prove all of his detractors wrong.
More News Headlines:
Patriots News 06-14, Patriots Wrap Up Spring Workouts
By: Steve BalestrieriPatriots wrap up spring workouts, looking ahead to training camp and the 2026 season. Drake Maye's development, A.J. Brown & Romeo Doubs boost offense.
Patriots Rookie Lomu Reveals “Weird” First Days at Right Tackle
By: Ian LoguePatriots rookie Caleb Lomu details his 'weird' initial adjustment to right tackle after college, now feeling natural with veteran Morgan Moses' help.
Vrabel’s Goal For Christian Barmore in 2026: “Being able to finish”
By: Ian LogueVrabel challenges Christian Barmore to 'finish' plays and increase sacks in 2026. His season management is also detailed.
MORSE: Day 3 of Patriots Mini-Camp
By: Mark MorseAnalyzing Patriots mini-camp Day 3, Drake Maye's red zone work, a late hit, and defensive dominance highlighted a spirited practice.
TRANSCRIPT: Mike Vrabel Press Conference 6/11
By: Ian LogueHere's the full transcript of what New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel had to say during his press conference on Thursday, June 11th, 2026.