New England Patriots
Draft picks: Arizona State WR
N'Keal Harry (No. 32 overall); Vanderbilt CB
Joejuan Williams (No. 45); Michigan DE
Chase Winovich (No. 77); Alabama RB
Damien Harris (No. 87); West Virginia OT
Yodny Cajuste (No. 101); Arkansas OG
Hjalte Froholdt (No. 118); Auburn QB
Jarrett Stidham (No. 133); Maryland DE
Byron Cowart (No. 159); Stanford P
Jake Bailey (No. 163); Mississippi CB
Ken Webster(No. 252)
Day 1 grade: A
Day 2 grade: A-
Day 3 grade: A-
Overall grade: A
Draft analysis: When Rob Gronkowski had to move outside in the playoffs this past season, it was pretty clear that New England needed a reliable big receiver to win downfield. Harry should meet that need quite well.
The
Patriots' interest in Williams was not a well-kept secret -- he had the versatility they needed in the secondary.
Giving up a third-round pick to go get him was not a Belichickian-type move, but if they had a first-round grade on him, I won't blame them for making the deal. They found a steal in Winovich in the third round. He's the type of high-motor, versatile lineman who will be a factor early on. Harris is an all-around talent who was worthy of a selection 20 picks earlier than his drafting spot. Cajuste has injury issues and doesn't have the greatest feet, but he could work his way into starting at right tackle.
Froholdt is an athletic and tough-minded Dane who fits the
Patriots' Way. Bill Belichick hopes that he can work Stidham into another strong-armed pocket passer; choosing him was a solid value in the fourth round. Cowart and Webster add depth to the defense.
Ryan Allen had the 19th-ranked net punting average in the league last year, so his days are numbered with Bailey in the fold.
2019 NFL Draft: Final quick-snap grades for all 32 teams