Matt Miller's mock draft based on what he has heard from his sources:
#15: New England Patriots — LB JEREMIAH OWUSU-KORAMOAH, NOTRE DAME
Analysis: The biggest question surrounding the New England Patriots this off-season will be what the team does at quarterback. And as of February 11 there aren’t many good answers, but in talks with scouts and league decision-makers, the overwhelming belief is that the Patriots will acquire another veteran as opposed to drafting a first-rounder at the position.
Marcus Mariota, currently a Las Vegas Raider, makes sense. So does Jimmy Garoppolo if the 49ers were to trade or release him.
So as of now, the pick here is not a quarterback. That might change as more intel becomes available, but the smart money is on Bill Belichick trying to build up his roster before swinging for a quarterback early on. And think about this—Belichick is 68 years old. He doesn’t want to rebuild with a rookie quarterback. He wants to win.
A pick that helps the Patriots right now is defensive weapon Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah from Notre Dame. A 6’1”, 220-pound missile, JOK has lined up as a STAR, a linebacker and a safety. He can be deployed in a myriad of alignments and assignments.
And when you’re dealing with Josh Allen twice a year, defenders with versatility and big play potential are a need.
#46. New England Patriots — DL Christian Barmore, Alabama
#111. New England Patriots — WR Tylan Wallace, Oklahoma State
#142. New England Patriots — S Richard LeCounte, Georgia
#173. New England Patriots — EDGE Elerson Smith, Northern Iowa
#207. New England Patriots — WR Whop Philyor, Indiana
