Who is the next D-Mac?

Devin McCourty, CB Rutgers, was selected by the Patriots #27 overall in the 2010 NFL draft. At the time, many fans criticized this pick as a reach. He would go on to silence critics by claiming a starting CB spot and posting 7 interceptions en route to his first pro bowl selection and a 1st team all-pro selection, all in his rookie season.

It's an amazing story overall when you look back at it and think about it. This year's version of the Patriots has a big need in the #1 CB position after the departure of Revis. Who could step in as a rookie and give us what D-Mac did? Make your predictions. Who in your opinion will be the late round CB who could make an instant impact, if the Pats were to select him?

There's only one. Byron Jones.

More seriously, Kevin Johnson is probably the closer fit to McCourty in terms of playing style.

Mid to late rounds I like Darryl Roberts and Troy Hill. In fact I could see Roberts being the Vollmer of this draft for us. A combine snub who goes much higher than anyone is expecting - I'm think 96 or around there.

I like Bobby McCain too but I see him as a slot corner so probably unlikely we pick him.

zimmy said:

Mid to late rounds I like Darryl Roberts and Troy Hill. In fact I could see Roberts being the Vollmer of this draft for us. A combine snub who goes much higher than anyone is expecting - I'm think 96 or around there.

I like Bobby McCain too but I see him as a slot corner so probably unlikely we pick him.

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Roberts is a good shout. The only thing I'd say is that he's a little slight and that concerns me. I can see a 6'4", 210lb receiver just running over him. He is very interesting though; outstanding athleticism and a track record for getting his hands on the ball.

This year's D-Mac is Shaq Thompson.

No, not at CB. We have 6 CB, it's not that much of a need, just too bad Revis is gone.

Thompson has the versatility that DMac had and the same ST contributions to guarantee he can provide some value as a rookie. And we have more of a need at LB than CB.