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My Ridiculously Early Start on a 2026 Pats Big Board

My ideal draft:

31. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona St.
63. Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn St.
95. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia Tech
125. Kyle Louis, LB/S, Pittsburgh
131. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford
171. VJ Payne, S, Kansas St.
191. Keagan Trost, OL, Missouri
198. Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington
202. Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
212. Eli Heidenreich, WR, Navy
247. Damonte Capehart, DT, Clemson
Why Max Ilheanachor over Blake Miller?
 
I like Iheanachor's footwork and upside. Miller seems to me to get over-extended, and ends up on the ground a lot. But Miller would be a solid option as well.
 
My short board for the Pats. These are the 35 guys who excite me the most, over all 3 days; guys who I would pound the table for if they are available.

1. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Why: Freeling is a bit raw but his trajectory is on the sharp upswing. He is the complete physical package with insane measurables and athleticism, SEC and CFP battle-hardened, and left and right tackle versatility. 9.99 RAS.
Why Not: Freeling will probably not last to pick 11, much less 31. But given that I have been pounding the table for him since he was in the 400's, I can't let go.



2. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona St.
Why: Former soccer player and late-comer to football who has exceptional footwork for a 6'6" 321# behemoth. 9.91 RAS, 3.12 TEF. Great power, plays with a mean streak. Huge upside, trajectory is sky high.
Why Not: Iheanachor is still developing technically, though giving him a year behind Morgan Moses is perfect.



3. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
Why: Planet Theory. 6'6" 330# guys who move like Banks are not earthlings. 9.84 RAS, 35" arms. Building a dominant DL is second in priority only to building a dominant OL.
Why Not: The medical concerns, which is the only reason he might be available. Memories of Dominique Easley.


4a. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Why: 6'7" 317# with 34 1/4" arms. Former wrestler, very physical. 9.97 RAS, 3.40 TEF. Team Captain, very durable, 49 consecutive starts.
Why Not: Not as agile as Freeling or Iheanachor, tends to get out over his feet and lose balance.



4b. Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn St.
Why: 6'6" 260# EDGEs with 6.90 3C project to dominant NFL players. Shades of Jevon Kearse and Chandler Jones. DDS has a 9.98 RAS, 39.5" VJ 10'11" BJ. 8.5 sacks each of the past 2 years. High motor, high character.
Why Not: A power rusher more than a bendy speed guy.



6a. Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami
Why: Because all roads lead to Akheem Mesidor. His 2025 tape is phenomenal.
Why Not: He will be 25, has an injury history, has only 1 year of top production (opposite a 1st round prospect), and did not test. No testing data.



6b. Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona
Why: 6'1" 190# DB with almost 33" arms. Former walk-on. Unparalleled range and versatility - can play outside CB, nickel/slot, or FS at a high level. Very productive, great analytics. 9.95 RAS including 4.33 speed. 1.50 10-split and 38" VJ.
Why Not: He may well go between 31 and 62, other positions may be considered greater needs. Will be 25 as a rookie.


8a. Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
Why: Brian Urlacher II. 6' 4 1/2" 239#, 9.73 RAS. 4.62 40, 1.59 10-split, 6.84 3C, 39" VJ. Can play MLB or SAM, former EDGE rusher who can play on line, or can drop back into coverage.
Why Not: Pats may prefer a more traditional MLB like Jacob Rodriguez, or not prioritize the position.


8b. Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Why: Plays WR like a linebacker. Physical receiver who punishes defenders. 4.4 speed, has big play capability at any time. An AJ Brown type of threat.
Why Not: Coming off an ACL tear, may not be ready right away in 2026. Still probably won't last until 63.


10a. Mike Washington, RB, Arkansas
Why: Imagine if Drake Maye had Jonathan Taylor at RB. That's Washington's upside. 6'1" 223# RB with 4.33 speed, receiving ability, and the ability to make big plays at any time. 10.00 RAS. 1.51 10-split, 39" VJ.
Why Not: RB value relative to other positions, day 2 alternatives.


10b. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford
Why: A true Y-TE - an offensive weapon and a lineman rolled into 1 - is a rare beast. Roush offers one of the most complete Y-TE packages since Rob Gronkowski. 9.99 RAS.
Why Not: 31" arms, 6% drop rate.


10c. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia St.
Why: 6' 3 3/4" X-WR with almost 33" arms. 9.90 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 11'3" BJ. Very explosive.
Why Not: Small school prospect.


13a. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Why: Jedi instincts and elite athleticism. Nagurski, Bednarik and winner, defensive leader who makes the entire defense better, big time playmaker. Tape backed up by testing.
Why Not: A tad undersized, limited versatility. Can make up other excuses, but the tape and athleticism are just too good.


13b. Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois
Why: 6'4" 260# power rusher. Great motor and intensity.
Why Not: Not a speed rusher, not as athletic as some. Mediocre in run support.


13c. Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF
Why: 6'4" 253# very twitchy EDGE rusher with great burst and hand usage. Explodes out of his stance. Great speed to power. Almost 34" arms. 9.90 RAS, including elite 1.58 10-split, 40" VJ, and 10'10" BJ.
Why Not: Poor run support. Shows signs of entitled attitude at his pro day.


16. Keionte Scott, Nickel/S, Miami
Why: A DB with a LB mentality, Scott is perhaps the most disruptive playmaker in the draft. 4.3 speed. Devastating blitzer and ballhawk.
Why Not: Scott works best closest to the LOS. Not sure he is as much of a FS as what the Pats want. Does not do well as an outside CB.


17. Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Why: 6'4" 239# former QB, only 3 years experience at TE. John Mackey award winner as top TE in 2025. Best route runner out of a strong and deep TE class. Made a TD or 1st down on 13% of his routes. Could be an elite big slot weapon. Elite athleticism: 9.46 RAS includes a 4.51 40, 1.59 10-split, 45.5" VJ and 11'3" BJ.
Why Not: Mainly a pass catcher. Works mostly out of the slot. Little ST experience.


18a. Devin Moore, CB, Florida
Why: 6'3" CBs with Moore's hip flexibility are rare. Would be an ideal #3 Outside CB in 2026 and Carlton Davis replacement in 2027 opposite Christian Gonzalez.
Why Not: Only ran a 4.5 40, 34.5" VJ. Injury history.


18b. Kyle Louis, LB/S, Pittsburgh
Why: 6' 220# safety and a LB rolled into one. Great ball skills, coverage ability, and instincts. Tremendous work ethic and drive. 4.53 speed with 1.61 10-split and 39.5" VJ.
Why Not: Undersized. The dreaded tweener label.


20. Keyron Crawford, EDGE, Auburn
Why: A 6'4" 255# dynamo who consistently out-performs and out-produces his more heralded linemate. Only 5 years football experience, so trajectory is steep.
Why Not: Creeping up draft boards.


21a. Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia
Why: An athletic move TE who can actually block! Delp was underused at Georgia, but showed flashes of greatness backed by elite athleticism. 9.82 RAS, including 4.49 40, 1.61 10-split, 38" VJ.
Why Not: Inconsistent tape and production.


21b. De'Zhaun Stribling, WR, Ole Miss
Why: Versatility. At 6'2" 209# with 4.33 speed, Strubling has the size, speed, technique and experience to play the X, Z or slot. He has logged over 3000 snaps.
Why Not:


23. Travis Burke, OT, Memphis
Why: Planet Theory again. Massive 6'9" 315# tackle who pulverizes opponents once he latches on. 9.01 RAS. Very violent.
Why Not: Protecting Drake Maye is priority #1, hopefully one of the top OTs will be drafted earlier. Burke will need time to develop, not as athletic as top prospects.


24. VJ Payne, S, Kansas St.
Why: 6'3" 210# safety with 34" arms, 81" wingspan, 4.40 speed with a 1.52 20-split. Covers a ton of ground, hits like a ton of bricks.
Why Not: Pats could take Treydan Stukes earlier.


25. Kaleb Elarms-Orr, LB, TCU
Why: 6'2" 234# LB with 4.47 speed. 154 tackles in 2025, 11 TFL. Great sideline to sideline speed, coverage ability. 9.92 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 40" VJ.
Why Not: The secret is slowly getting out.


26. Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn St.
Why: Versatile 6'3" 206# safety with ball skills and range. 6.98 3C, 4.11 SS.
Why Not: 4.62 long speed. Athleticism adequate, but not elite.


27a. CJ Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin
Why: 6' 1" CB with 32" arms, 9.97 RAS. 4.41 40, 1.53 10-split, 42" VJ, 11' BJ.
Why Not:


27b. Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington
Why: 6' 3 1/2" CB with 4.45 speed, 6.80 3C, 7.15 SS. 39" VJ, 1.53 10-split, 33" arms. 9.90 RAS.
Why Not:


29. Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
Why: Poor man's Mike Washington. 6'3" 233#, 9.49 RAS. 4.50 40, 1.60 10-split, 37" VJ, 26 BP. Former WR, great dual threat. 4.28 SS. Top 30 visit.
Why Not:


30a. Jordan Van den Berg, DL, Georgia Tech
Why: 6'3 310# DT who can play the 1-tech or disrupt. 10.00 RAS including 1.61 10-split, 4.19 SS (tied with Henry Anderson for best ever by a DT), 36" VJ, 9'11" BJ. Able to handle double teams with ease, 2nd most pressures by a DT in CFB.
Why Not:


30b. DaMonte Capehart, DL, Clemson
Why: 6'5" 313#, can play the 1-tech but athletic enough to disrupt. Nearly 34" arms. 9.97 RAS include 1.72 10-split and 33.5" VJ.
Why Not: Despite a ton of talent, Clemson defense underwhelmed in 2025.



32a. Eli Heidenreich, WR, Navy
Why: Julian Edelman 2.0. Played RB at Navy, but really a super quick slot receiver who can get open in a phone booth. 9.12 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 4.44 40, 1.55 10-split.
Why Not:


32b. Cyrus Allen, WR, Cincinnati
Why: The ultimate ankle breaker. 1st round and TD machine.
Why Not:


34a. Keagen Trost, OL, Missouri
Why: PFFs highest graded offensive lineman from 2025. 6'5" 312#, offers starting RG as well as swing tackle potential.
Why Not: Seventh year senior. Short arms and lack of elite athleticism could push him inside.


34b. Micah Morris, IOL, Georgia
Why: 6'5" 335# guard with elite athleticism. Almost 34" arms. 9.98 RAS including 1.73 10-split. Experience at L and R guard. 0 career sacks and 11 pressures allowed. Combination of power and athleticism makes him an intriguing potential future startingI'OL. Played next to Jared Wilson in 2024.
Why Not: Limited positional versatility.



There are many many other really good prospects, many of whom I would be elated to get. But these guys resonate with me in particular.
 
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My short board for the Pats. These are the 35 guys who excite me the most, over all 3 days; guys who I would pound the table for if they are available.

1. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Why: Freeling is a bit raw but his trajectory is on the sharp upswing. He is the complete physical package with insane measurables and athleticism, SEC and CFP battle-hardened, and left and right tackle versatility.
Why Not: Freeling will probably not last to pick 11, much less 31. But given that I have been pounding the table for him since he was in the 400's, I can't let go.



2. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona St.
Why: Former soccer player and late-comer to football who has exceptional footwork for a 6'6" 321# behemoth. Great power, plays with a mean streak. Huge upside, trajectory is sky high.
Why Not: Iheanachor is still developing technically, though giving him a year behind Morgan Moses is perfect.



3. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
Why: Planet Theory. 6'6" 330# guys who move like Banks are not earthlings. 9.84 RAS, 35" arms. Building a dominant DL is second in priority only to building a dominant OL.
Why Not: The medical concerns, which is the only reason he might be available. Memories of Dominique Easley.


4a. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Why: 6'7" 317# with 34 1/4" arms. Former wrestler, very physical. 9.97 RAS. Team Captain, very durable, 49 consecutive starts.
Why Not: Not as agile as Freeling or Iheanachor, tends to get out over his feet and lose balance.



4b. Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn St.
Why: 6'6" 260# EDGEs with 6.90 3C project to dominant NFL players. Shades of Jevon Kearse and Chandler Jones. DDS has a 9.98 RAS, 39.5" VJ 10'11" BJ. 8.5 sacks each of the past 2 years. High motor, high character.
Why Not: A power rusher more than a bendy speed guy.



6a. Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami
Why: Because all roads lead to Akheem Mesidor. His 2025 tape is phenomenal.
Why Not: He will be 25, has an injury history, has only 1 year of top production (opposite a 1st round prospect), and did not test. No testing data.



6b. Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona
Why: 6'1" 190# DB with almost 33" arms. Former walk-on. Unparalleled range and versatility- can playboutside CB, nickel/slot, or FS at a high level. Very productive, great analytics. 9.95 RAS including 4.33 speed. 1.50 10-split amd 38" VJ.
Why Not: He may well go between 31 and 62, other positions may be considered greater needs. Will be 25 as a rookie.


8a. Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
Why: Brian Urlacher II. 6' 4 1/2" 239#, 9.73 RAS. 4.62 40, 1.59 10-split, 6'84" 3C, 39" VJ. Can play MLB or SAM, for EDGE rusher who can play non line, can drop back into coverage.
Why Not: Pats may prefer a more traditional MLB like Jacob Rodriguez, or not prioritize the position.


8b. Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Why: Plays WR like a linebacker. Physical receiver who punishes defenders. 4.4 speed, has big play capability at any time. An AJ Brown type of threat.
Why Not: Coming off an ACL tear, may not be ready right away in 2026. Still probably won't last until 63.


10a. Mike Washington, RB, Arkansas
Why: Imagine if Drake Maye had Jonathan Taylor at RB. That's Washington's upside. 6'1" 223# RB with 4.33 speed, receiving ability, and the ability to make big plays at any time. 10.00 RAS. 1.51 10-split, 39" VJ.
Why Not: RB value relative to other positions, day 2 alternatives.


10b. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford
Why: A true Y-TE - an offensive weapon and a lineman rolled into 1 - is a rare beast. Roush offers one of the most complete Y-TE packages since Rob Gronkowski.
Why Not: 31" arms, 6% drop rate.


10c. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia St.
Why: 6' 3 3/4" X-WR with almost 33" arms. 9.90 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 11'3" BJ. Very explosive.
Why Not: Small school prospect.


13a. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Why: Jedi instincts and elite athleticism. Nagurski, Bernard and winner, defensive leader who makes the entire defense better, big time playmaker. Tape backed up by testing.
Why Not: A tad undersized, limited versatility. Can make up other excuses, but the tape and athleticism are just too good.


13b. Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois
Why: 6'4" 260# power rusher. Great motor and intensity.
Why Not: Not a speed rusher, not as athletic as some. Mediocre in run support.


13c. Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF
Why: 6'4" 253# very twitchy EDGE rusher with great burst and hand usage. Explodes out of his stance. Great speed to power. Almost 34" arms. 9.90 RAS, including elite 1.58 10-split, 40" VJ, and 10'10" BJ.
Why Not: Poor run support. Shows signs of entitled attitude at his pro day.


16. Keionte Scott, Nickel/S, Miami
Why: A DB with a LB mentality, Scott is perhaps the most disruptive playmaker in the draft. 4.3 speed. Devastating blitzer and ballhawk.
Why Not: Scott works best closest to the LOS. Not sure he is as much of a FS as what the Pats want. Does not do well as an outside CB.


17. Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Why: 6'4" 239# former QB, only 3 years experience at TE. John Mackey award winner as top TE in 2025. Best route runner out of a strong and deep TE class. Made a TD or 1st down on 13% of his routes. Could be an elite big slot weapon. Elite athleticism: 9.46 RAS includes a 4.51 40, 1.59 10-split, 45.5" VJ and 11'3" BJ.
Why Not: Mainly a pass catcher. Works mostly out of the slot. Little ST experience.


18a. Devin Moore, CB, Florida
Why: 6'3" CBs with Moore's hip flexibility are rare. Would be an ideal #3 Outside CB in 2026 and Carlton Davis replacement in 2027 opposite Christian Gonzalez.
Why Not: Only ran a 4.5 40, 34.5" VJ. Injury history.


18b. Kyle Louis, LB/S, Pittsburgh
Why: 6' 220# safety and a LB rolled into one. Great ball skills, coverage ability, and instincts. Tremendous work ethic and drive. 4.53 speed with 1.61 10-split and 39.5" VJ.
Why Not: Undersized. The dreaded tweener label.


20. Keyron Crawford, EDGE, Auburn
Why: A 6'4" 255# dynamo who consistently out-performs and out-produces his more heralded linemate. Only 5 years football experience, so trajectory is steep.
Why Not: Creeping up draft boards.


21a. Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia
Why: An athletic move TE who can actually block! Delp was underused at Georgia, but showed flashes of greatness backed by elite athleticism. 9.82 RAS, including 4.49 40, 1.61 10-split, 38" VJ.
Why Not: Inconsistent tape and production.


21b. De'Zhaun Stribling, WR, Ole Miss
Why: Versatility. At 6'2" 209# with 4.33 speed, Strubling has the size, speed, technique and experience to play the X, Z or slot. He has logged over 3000 snaps.
Why Not:


23. Travis Burke, OT, Memphis
Why: Planet Theory again. Massive 6'9" 315# tackke who pulverizes opponents once he latcheson. 9.01 RAS. Very violent.
Why Not: Protecting Drake Maye is priority #1, hopefully one of the top OTs will be drafted earlier. Burke will need time to develop, not as athletic as top prospects.


24. VJ Payne, S, Kansas St.
Why: 6'3" 210# safety with 34" arms, 81" wingspan, 4.40 speed with a 1.52 20-split. Covers a ton of ground, hits like a ton of bricks.
Why Not: Pats could take Treydan Stukes earlier.


25. Kaleb Elarms-Orr, LB, TCU
Why: 6'2" 234# LB with 4.47 speed. 154 tackles in 2025, 11 TFL. Great sideline to sideline speed, coverage ability. 9.92 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 40" VJ.
Why Not: The secret is slowly getting out.


26. Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn St.
Why: Versatile 6'3" 206# safety with ball skills and range. 6.98 3C, 4.11 SS.
Why Not: 4.62 long speed. Athleticism adequate, but not elite.


27a. CJ Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin
Why: 6' 1" CB with 32" arms, 9.97 RAS. 4.41 40, 1.53 10-split, 42" VJ, 11' BJ.
Why Not:


27b. Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington
Why: 6' 3 1/2" CB with 4.45 speed, 6.80 3C, 7.15 SS. 39" VJ, 1.53 10-split, 33" arms. 9.90 RAS.
Why Not:


28. Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
Why: Poor man's Mike Washington. 6'3" 233#, 9.49 RAS. 4.50 40, 1.60 10-split, 37" VJ, 26 BP. Former WR, great dual threat. 4.28 SS. Top 30 visit.
Why Not:


30a. Jordan Van den Berg, DL, Georgia Tech
Why: 6'3 310# DT who can play the 1-tech or disrupt. 10.00 RAS including 1.61 10-split, 4.19 SS (tied with Henry Anderson for best ever by a DT), 36" VJ, 9'11" BJ. Able to handle double teams with ease, 2nd most pressures by a DT in CFB.
Why Not:


30b. DaMonte Capehart, DL, Clemson
Why: 6'5" 313#, can play the 1-tech but athletic enough to disrupt. Nearly 34" arms. 9.97 RAS include 1.72 10-split and 33.5" VJ.
Why Not: Despite a ton of talent, Clemson defense underwhelmed in 2025.



32a. Eli Heidenreich, WR, Navy
Why: Julian Edelman 2.0. Played RB at Navy, but really a super quick slot receiver who can get open in a phone booth. 9.12 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 4.44 40, 1.55 10-split.
Why Not:


32b. Cyrus Allen, WR, Cincinnati
Why: The ultimate ankle breaker. 1st round and TD machine.
Why Not:


34a. Keagen Trost, OL, Missouri
Why: PFFs highest graded offensive lineman from 2025. 6'5" 312#, offers starting RG as well as swing tackle potential.
Why Not: Seventh year senior. Short arms and lack of elite athleticism could push him inside.


34b. Micah Morris, IOL, Georgia
Why: 6'5" 335# guard with elite athleticism. Almost 34" arms. 9.98 RAS including 1.73 10-split. Experience at L and R gusard. nCombination of power and athleticism makes him an intriguing potential future starting I'LL1. Played next to Jared Wilson in 2024.
Why Not: Limited positional versatility.


There are many many other really good prospects, many of whom I would be elated to get. But these guys resonate with me in particular.

Excellent work.
 
Regardless, both Stowers and Lawrence should be on our radars at 63, and Washington at 95...

The Problem with Lawrence is that he's a one trick pony off the edge. He's a liability against the run.

While Stowers has great jumping ability, good route running and good hands, he's sub-par as a blocker in the run game and has little experience as a pass blocker. He's more of a Move-TE who will telegraph the play by being on the field. Stowers also has zero Special teams experience.
 
15 day 1 and 2 prospects who I could see being "Vrabel guys":

1. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia. L and R tackle versatility, absurd athleticism, toughness. Begged coach to play with injured ankle.

2. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona St. If only he had knocked Mike on his ass, it would have been true love.

3. Jake Golday, LB/EDGE, Cincinnati. A more athletic clone of Vrabel himself.

4. Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois. Mr. Violent. Gets Tedy Bruschi comps from Drew Boylhart.

5. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford. A Gronk with T-rex arms.

6. Chris Bell, WR, Cincinnati. Plays WR like Vrabel played LB.

7. Keylan Rutledge, IOL Georgia Tech. "I imagine myself putting my helmet through the other guy's chest." Gets Logan Mankins comps from Daniel Jeremiah.

8. Keionte Scott, Nickel/S, Miami. Plays DB with a LB mentality.

9. Treydan Stukes, Nickel/S, Arizona. The most versatile DB in the draft. Former walk-on, had to earn everything.

10. Kyle Louis, LB/S, Pittsburgh. Tough as nails, outworks everyone. Great versatility.

11. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech. Makes the entire defense better. Turnover machine.

12. Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn St. Long, violent, athletic, versatile.

13. Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio St. Need an Ohio St. guy on this list. McDonald is a cross between Hulk Hogan and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

14. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson. Tough, physical, durable. Work pail guy with athletic upside.

15. Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia. Versatility again. Above TE who can actually block. Vrabel says you can never have too many TEs.
 
15 day 1 and 2 prospects who I could see being "Vrabel guys":

1. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia. L and R tackle versatility, absurd athleticism, toughness. Begged coach to play with injured ankle.

2. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona St. If only he had knocked Mike on his ass, it would have been true love.

3. Jake Golday, LB/EDGE, Cincinnati. A more athletic clone of Vrabel himself.

4. Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois. Mr. Violent. Gets Tedy Bruschi comps from Drew Boylhart.

5. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford. A Gronk with T-rex arms.

6. Chris Bell, WR, Cincinnati. Plays WR like Vrabel played LB.

7. Keylan Rutledge, IOL Georgia Tech. "I imagine myself putting my helmet through the other guy's chest." Gets Logan Mankins comps from Daniel Jeremiah.

8. Keionte Scott, Nickel/S, Miami. Plays DB with a LB mentality.

9. Treydan Stukes, Nickel/S, Arizona. The most versatile DB in the draft. Former walk-on, had to earn everything.

10. Kyle Louis, LB/S, Pittsburgh. Tough as nails, outworks everyone. Great versatility.

11. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech. Makes the entire defense better. Turnover machine.

12. Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn St. Long, violent, athletic, versatile.

13. Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio St. Need an Ohio St. guy on this list. McDonald is a cross between Hulk Hogan and Mikhail Baryshnikov.

14. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson. Tough, physical, durable. Work pail guy with athletic upside.

15. Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia. Versatility again. Above TE who can actually block. Vrabel says you can never have too many TEs.
Very nice list.
 
Thinking about versatility and disruption on defense, there are 5 guys who I think have the greatest potential to wreck havoc and who will likely be available at 31 or after:

- DL Caleb Banks
- LB Jake Golday
- S Treydan Stukes
- DB Keionte Scott
- LB/S Kyle Louis

Zak Kuhr could create so much chaos with some of these guys.
 
Updating my short board for the Pats, extending by 5 to 40 prospects. These are the 40 guys who excite me the most, over all 3 days; guys who I would pound the table for if they are available.

1. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Why: Freeling is a bit raw but his trajectory is on the sharp upswing. He is the complete physical package with insane measurables and athleticism, SEC and CFP battle-hardened, and left and right tackle versatility. 9.99 RAS.
Why Not: Freeling will probably not last to pick 11, much less 31. But given that I have been pounding the table for him since he was in the 400's, I can't let go.



2. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona St.
Why: Former soccer player and late-comer to football who has exceptional footwork for a 6'6" 321# behemoth. 9.91 RAS, 3.12 TEF. Great power, plays with a mean streak. Huge upside, trajectory is sky high.
Why Not: Iheanachor is still developing technically, though giving him a year behind Morgan Moses is perfect.



3a. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Why: 6'7" 317# with 34 1/4" arms. Former wrestler, very physical. 9.97 RAS, 3.40 TEF. Team Captain, very durable, 49 consecutive starts.
Why Not: Not as agile as Freeling or Iheanachor, tends to get out over his feet and lose balance.



3b. Keylan Rutledge, I. Georgia Tech
Why: The most violent player in the draft. Effort and finish. Excellent athleticism and positional versatility. Would be a tonesetter.
Why Not: Mike Onwenu already st RG, positional value.


5a. Kayden McDonald, DL, Ohio St.
Why: Part Hilk Hogan, part Baryshnikov, McDonald is a "force multipler" who can take up 1.5-2 gaps, free up others, and still disrupt. That is incredibly rare and valuable.
Why Not: High use of draft resources on a relatively strong position. Mainly a run stopper, with pass rush a greater need.


5b. Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
Why: Planet Theory. 6'6" 330# guys who move like Banks are not earthlings. 9.84 RAS, 35" arms. Building a dominant DL is second in priority only to building a dominant OL.
Why Not: The medical concerns, which is the only reason he might be available. Memories of Dominique Easley.


7a. Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
Why: Brian Urlacher II. 6' 4 1/2" 239#, 9.73 RAS. 4.62 40, 1.59 10-split, 6.84 3C, 39" VJ. Can play MLB or SAM, former EDGE rusher who can play on line, or can drop back into coverage.
Why Not: Pats may prefer a more traditional MLB like Jacob Rodriguez, or not prioritize the position.


7b. Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona
Why: 6'1" 190# DB with almost 33" arms. Former walk-on. Unparalleled range and versatility - can play outside CB, nickel/slot, or FS at a high level. Very productive, great analytics. 9.95 RAS including 4.33 speed. 1.50 10-split and 38" VJ.
Why Not: He may well go between 31 and 62, other positions may be considered greater needs. Will be 25 as a rookie.


7c. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Why: He's kind of like Kayden McDonald, but at safety. A "force multiplier". A tonesetter. The Seahawks drafted a similar kind of player in Nick Emmanwori, and unleashing him helped pave the way to a SB. 9.13 RAS.
Why Not: High use of draft resources. Vrabel may prefer a more rangy and versatile FS like Treydan Stukes.



10a. Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami
Why: Because all roads lead to Akheem Mesidor. His 2025 tape is phenomenal.
Why Not: He will be 25, has an injury history, has only 1 year of top production (opposite a 1st round prospect), and did not test. No testing data.



10b. Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn St.
Why: 6'6" 260# EDGEs with 6.90 3C project to dominant NFL players. Shades of Jevon Kearse and Chandler Jones. DDS has a 9.98 RAS, 39.5" VJ 10'11" BJ. 8.5 sacks each of the past 2 years. High motor, high character.
Why Not: A power rusher more than a bendy speed guy.



12. Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Why: Plays WR like a linebacker. Physical receiver who punishes defenders. 4.4 speed, has big play capability at any time. An AJ Brown type of threat.
Why Not: Coming off an ACL tear, may not be ready right away in 2026. Still probably won't last until 63.


13a. Sam Roush, TE, Stanford
Why: A true Y-TE - an offensive weapon and a lineman rolled into 1 - is a rare beast. Roush offers one of the most complete Y-TE packages since Rob Gronkowski. 9.99 RAS.
Why Not: 31" arms, 6% drop rate.


13b. Mike Washington, RB, Arkansas
Why: Imagine if Drake Maye had Jonathan Taylor at RB. That's Washington's upside. 6'1" 223# RB with 4.33 speed, receiving ability, and the ability to make big plays at any time. 10.00 RAS. 1.51 10-split, 39" VJ.
Why Not: RB value relative to other positions, day 2 alternatives.


13c. Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia St.
Why: 6' 3 3/4" X-WR with almost 33" arms. 9.90 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 11'3" BJ. Very explosive.
Why Not: Small school prospect.


16a. Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Why: Jedi instincts and elite athleticism. Nagurski, Bednarik and winner, defensive leader who makes the entire defense better, big time playmaker. Tape backed up by testing.
Why Not: A tad undersized, limited versatility. Can make up other excuses, but the tape and athleticism are just too good.


16b. Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois
Why: 6'4" 260# power rusher. Great motor and intensity.
Why Not: Not a speed rusher, not as athletic as some. Mediocre in run support.


16c. Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF
Why: 6'4" 253# very twitchy EDGE rusher with great burst and hand usage. Explodes out of his stance. Great speed to power. Almost 34" arms. 9.90 RAS, including elite 1.58 10-split, 40" VJ, and 10'10" BJ.
Why Not: Poor run support. Shows signs of entitled attitude at his pro day.


19. Keionte Scott, Nickel/S, Miami
Why: A DB with a LB mentality, Scott is perhaps the most disruptive playmaker in the draft. 4.3 speed. Devastating blitzer and ballhawk.
Why Not: Scott works best closest to the LOS. Not sure he is as much of a FS as what the Pats want. Does not do well as an outside CB.


20. Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Why: 6'4" 239# former QB, only 3 years experience at TE. John Mackey award winner as top TE in 2025. Best route runner out of a strong and deep TE class. Made a TD or 1st down on 13% of his routes. Could be an elite big slot weapon. Elite athleticism: 9.46 RAS includes a 4.51 40, 1.59 10-split, 45.5" VJ and 11'3" BJ.
Why Not: Mainly a pass catcher. Works mostly out of the slot. Little ST experience.


21a. Devin Moore, CB, Florida
Why: 6'3" CBs with Moore's hip flexibility are rare. Would be an ideal #3 Outside CB in 2026 and Carlton Davis replacement in 2027 opposite Christian Gonzalez.
Why Not: Only ran a 4.5 40, 34.5" VJ. Injury history.


21b. Kyle Louis, LB/S, Pittsburgh
Why: 6' 220# safety and a LB rolled into one. Great ball skills, coverage ability, and instincts. Tremendous work ethic and drive. 4.53 speed with 1.61 10-split and 39.5" VJ.
Why Not: Undersized. The dreaded tweener label.


23a. Keyron Crawford, EDGE, Auburn
Why: A 6'4" 255# dynamo who consistently out-performs and out-produces his more heralded linemate. Only 5 years football experience, so trajectory is steep.
Why Not: Creeping up draft boards.


23b. Kaleb Proctor, DL, SE Louisiana St.
Why: Milton Williams lite. Incredibly disruptive, versatile, high motor, high character player. 9.15 RAS. Played his best against good competition. May be BPA if he lasts to 95.
Why Not: EDGE more a need than IDL. Redundancy with Milt Williams.


25a. Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia
Why: An athletic move TE who can actually block! Delp was underused at Georgia, but showed flashes of greatness backed by elite athleticism. 9.82 RAS, including 4.49 40, 1.61 10-split, 38" VJ.
Why Not: Inconsistent tape and production.


25b. De'Zhaun Stribling, WR, Ole Miss
Why: Versatility. At 6'2" 209# with 4.33 speed, Strubling has the size, speed, technique and experience to play the X, Z or slot. He has logged over 3000 snaps.
Why Not:


27. Travis Burke, OT, Memphis
Why: Planet Theory again. Massive 6'9" 315# tackle who pulverizes opponents once he latches on. 9.01 RAS. Very violent.
Why Not: Protecting Drake Maye is priority #1, hopefully one of the top OTs will be drafted earlier. Burke will need time to develop, not as athletic as top prospects.


28. VJ Payne, S, Kansas St.
Why: 6'3" 210# safety with 34" arms, 81" wingspan, 4.40 speed with a 1.52 20-split. Covers a ton of ground, hits like a ton of bricks.
Why Not: Pats could take Treydan Stukes earlier.


29. Kaleb Elarms-Orr, LB, TCU
Why: 6'2" 234# LB with 4.47 speed. 154 tackles in 2025, 11 TFL. Great sideline to sideline speed, coverage ability. 9.92 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 40" VJ.
Why Not: The secret is slowly getting out.


30. Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn St.
Why: Versatile 6'3" 206# safety with ball skills and range. 6.98 3C, 4.11 SS.
Why Not: 4.62 long speed. Athleticism adequate, but not elite.


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(continued from previous post)

31a. CJ Demmings, CB, Stephen F. Austin
Why: 6' 1" CB with 32" arms, 9.97 RAS. 4.41 40, 1.53 10-split, 42" VJ, 11' BJ.
Why Not:


31b. Ephesians Prysock, CB, Washington
Why: 6' 3 1/2" CB with 4.45 speed, 6.80 3C, 7.15 SS. 39" VJ, 1.53 10-split, 33" arms. 9.90 RAS.
Why Not:


33. Adam Randall, RB, Clemson
Why: Poor man's Mike Washington. 6'3" 233#, 9.49 RAS. 4.50 40, 1.60 10-split, 37" VJ, 26 BP. Former WR, great dual threat. 4.28 SS. Top 30 visit.
Why Not:


34a. Jordan Van den Berg, DL, Georgia Tech
Why: 6'3 310# DT who can play the 1-tech or disrupt. 10.00 RAS including 1.61 10-split, 4.19 SS (tied with Henry Anderson for best ever by a DT), 36" VJ, 9'11" BJ. Able to handle double teams with ease, 2nd most pressures by a DT in CFB. Like Kayden McDonald, a "force multiplier".
Why Not:


34b. DaMonte Capehart, DL, Clemson
Why: 6'5" 313#, can play the 1-tech but athletic enough to disrupt. Nearly 34" arms. 9.97 RAS include 1.72 10-split and 33.5" VJ.
Why Not: Despite a ton of talent, Clemson defense underwhelmed in 2025.



36a. Eli Heidenreich, WR, Navy
Why: Julian Edelman 2.0. Played RB at Navy, but really a super quick slot receiver who can get open in a phone booth. 9.12 RAS, 1.55 10-split, 4.44 40, 1.55 10-split.
Why Not:


36b. Cyrus Allen, WR, Cincinnati
Why: The ultimate ankle breaker. 1st round and TD machine.
Why Not:


38a. Keagen Trost, OL, Missouri
Why: PFFs highest graded offensive lineman from 2025. 6'5" 312#, offers starting RG as well as swing tackle potential.
Why Not: Seventh year senior. Short arms and lack of elite athleticism could push him inside.


38b. Micah Morris, IOL, Georgia
Why: 6'5" 335# guard with elite athleticism. Almost 34" arms. 9.98 RAS including 1.73 10-split. Experience at L and R guard. 0 career sacks and 11 pressures allowed. Combination of power and athleticism makes him an intriguing potential future startingI'OL. Played next to Jared Wilson in 2024.
Why Not: Limited positional versatility.



40. Trey Moore, LB/EDGE, Texas
Why: Day 3 version of Arvell Reese/Jake Golday - a versatile hybrid who can both rush the passer and play in space. 8.77 RAS, 4.54 40, 1.60 10-split, 38.5" VJ, 10' BJ. 4.21 SS, 7.97 3C.
Why Not: He was much more productive against UTSA level competition than after transferring to Texas.

 
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