Nine moths ago, the Patriots had just completed their 2010 NFL draft and added 12 new players to the club. At the time, many people were questioning the Devin McCourty selection and frustrated with the team trading down throughout the draft. Well, few are complaining now as it appears the Patriots had the strongest draft for 2010 and ESPN's draft guru, Mel Kiper, agrees. Here is what Mr. Kiper had to say -
"It's one thing for so many picks to see the field, it's another when so many are immediate starters. So while there were a few value question marks, the Patriots were brilliant in terms of identifying fits. And it's not like Bill Belichick and the New England brain trust forced guys into action in an attempt to dignify their choices. No, these guys played early and played well, and the team was noticeably better because of it. Devin McCourty landed in the Pro Bowl. Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez were good enough that they seem to have shifted the whole offensive methodology, with more tight end sets than ever. Brandon Spikes, and Jermaine Cunningham played a ton. Brandon Deaderick, the 247th pick, was called into duty and showed toughness. Even punter Zoltan Mesko was solid. Good picks all over, and the Patriots will have many more in April"
Draft grade: B-minus | Current Grade: A-plus
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