New England Patriots: 7-Round 2018 mock draft after Super Bowl loss

With the Super Bowl 52 loss in the rearview, Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots are looking ahead to April’s 2018 NFL Draft

The New England Patriots are experts at finding value in undervalued players. This year should be no different, as the 2018 NFL Draft class has a lot of talent that could help New England retain its dominance in the NFL.

With Malcolm Butler possibly leaving in free agency and a weak pass rush that may be exposed next year without Matt Patrica’s creativity, the Patriots have holes to fill on the defense. Offensively, the question of drafting a quarterback may be considered in New England’s front office. Tom Brady can’t play forever, right?

With that in mind, let’s dive into a seven-round 2018 mock draft for the Patriots, starting with pick No. 31 in the first round.

Round 1: Isaiah Oliver, CB, Colorado

If Malcolm Butler signs to another team, the Patriots would have a major void in the secondary. As one of the best corners in his class, Isaiah Oliver could step right in and fill Butler’s shoes. Oliver is dominant in coverage and boasts a 75.7 passer rating when he was targeted in 2017, according to Pro Football Focus Elite.

Round 2, Pick 1: Isaiah Wynn, OG, Georgia

Wynn was one of the best offensive linemen at the Senior Bowl, and the Patriots are known to address the front line early in the draft. With the ability to play inside as a guard or lineup against edge rushers as a tackle, Wynn’s versatility makes him a desirable prospect. Protecting Brady has to be the number one priority for the Patriots going forward.

Round 2, Pick 2: Uchenna Nwosu, EDGE, USC

A 39-year old James Harrison isn’t the future of New England’s pass rush. Instead, drafting Nwosu, an explosive and physical edge rusher, will set up the Patriots for years to come. The senior recorded 9.5 sacks last year and can lineup at outside linebacker or defensive end. Nwosu would thrive in nearly any system in the league.

Round 3: Dante Pettis, WR, Washington

Wide Reciever may not be an immediate concern for the Patriots, but if Pettis falls late in the third round, New England will select the speedy slot receiver. Belichick’s Patriots have always valued special teams and Pettis embodies an excellent special teams player. As one of the best punt returners in NCAA history, Pettis could help the Pats as more than just a receiver.

Round 4: Luke Falk, QB, Washington State

With most of the top quarterbacks going in the first round, the Patriots aren’t going to select a gunslinger on day one. However, Falk is a smart quarterback who knows how to push the ball downfield. The Washington State product threw for over 3,000 yards and 30 touchdowns in 2017. Is he the successor to Tom Brady? Time will tell how he fairs in New England’s system.

Next: 2018 NFL Mock Draft: Post-Super Bowl edition

Round 6: Skai Moore, LB, South Carolina

Moore came back from a neck injury to become one of the best linebackers in the SEC in 2017. While many teams may be scared by his injury history, New England is willing to take a risk on a guy who could come in and make an immediate impact on defense.

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