Well, that was an interesting evening.
Combined with the first round draft of OT Nate Solder, NE has focused this draft on rebuilding an aging offense which was highly productive in 2010, but has melted down in the playoffs the past two seasons.
Yet another item of note; on day two BB specifically drafted for players who can quickly contribute despite the expectation of a shortened offseason for player development:
-- Dowling grew up in the Al Groh defense at Virginia, a version of the same one BB runs in New England.
-- As RBs, Vereen and Ridley are more likely to contribute quickly with minimal lead time.
-- A reserve QB, Mallett is a clipboard holding intern not expected to contribute much early.