Following yesterday's final regular season game action, the 2011 NFL draft order for draft picks 1-20 in the first round has been finalized.
Thanks to the Raiders finishing the season at 8-8, the Patriots will have the 17th overall selection. New England acquired this pick from the Richard Seymour trade two seasons ago. While many fans had hoped to have a top ten selection, it seems less necessary thanks to the tremendous play they've gotten from each of their picks from this year's draft.
It should be an interesting offseason even after this amazing year comes to an end. They have six picks in the first three rounds in April's draft, which should set them up well for both next year and future seasons.
The good news is one thing is probably certain - thanks to Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski, it's doubtful they'll use one of those selections on a tight end.
More News Headlines:
MORSE: Patriots Busy Adding to 53-Man Roster and Practice Squad
By: Mark MorsePatriots bolster 53-man roster with Erick Hunter, add Jose Ramirez, Jalen Hunt to practice squad, and announce 2026 captains.
MORSE: Patriots Roster Remains in Flux
By: Mark MorsePatriots reshape their roster with new waiver claims Cameron Latu & Darius Muasau, plus extensive practice squad additions and releases.
Breaking Down the Patriots’ 2026 Initial 53-Man Roster
By: Steve BalestrieriBreaking down the Patriots' 2026 initial 53-man roster. Strengths include Drake Maye and receivers, but defensive depth remains a key question.
MORSE: Some Hits and Misses on Patriots’ Initial 53-Man Roster
By: Mark MorseEliot Wolf's Patriots' 53-man roster is scrutinized for hits, misses, and depth challenges. Trades for Kiner and Rouse addressed immediate needs.
Patriots News And Notes 08-30: The Depth Will Be An Issue
By: Steve BalestrieriThe Patriots' initial 53-man roster will reveal depth concerns. Gonzalez's stalled contract, and roster holes.