ESPN's NFL draft guru Mel Kiper, Jr, released his Day Two: Winners And Questions on Friday night and had some thoughts on the Patriots selections. Here is what Kiper had to say. -
New England Patriots
The picks: S Tavon Wilson at No. 48, DE Jake Bequette at No. 90
"The Patriots actually filled some needs. And I think Bequette will be a solid player for them. His versatility is there, and I can see him as a stand-up pass-rusher. Wilson puzzles me a little on value. A month ago, when I released my draft guide, Wilson was the No. 26-ranked safety on my board. I know some coaches like him, but this is a player both I and colleague Todd McShay think could have been sitting there in the sixth round. These picks fit needs, but both are definite reaches to me."
Analysis:
Kiper brings up a lot of great points, especially on the word value. Value has been a word the Patriots front office has put a high priority on achieving throughout the draft process and Patriots fans have often times left April's annual event with a bad taste in their mouth.
Yes, New England did fill some needs for the defense, but it certainly seems they could have traded back and not only collected more picks, but also acquired the players they wanted much later. Of course, that may not have been an option.
The Tavon Wilson pick stands out more than Bequette. Although, I will say I am very anxious to see Wilson play. With Belichick reaching for him in the second round, it makes me very intrigued to what he saw on tape.
In any case, the Patriots have focused on upgrading the unit by dedicating their first four picks of the draft to the defense. After the team struggled so much on the defensive side of the ball in 2012, the injection of youth should do wonders for the team. For that, however, we will have to wait and see.
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