New England Patriots: 7-Round 2018 mock draft in mid-March

Even after adding Taven Bryan and Malik Jefferson to the mix, the Patriots still have needs in their defensive front seven. In particular, it would be great to see the team find a way to improve their ability to attack the quarterback from the edge.

With their late third-round selection, the Patriots take a chance on Washington State defensive lineman Hercules Mata’afa. Primarily a defensive tackle in college, Mata’afa is an extremely difficult prospect to project to the next level.

He was a strong interior pass rusher in college, consistently overwhelming opposing blockers with quickness and speed. Mata’afa was a productive pass rusher who could make a significant impact on the game, but he simply is not big enough to play inside at the next level, at least not on a consistent basis. If Mata’afa is going to make an impact as a pass rusher at the next level, it is going to have to be from the edge.

The Washington State product is an extremely quick and explosive player who has some pass rush upside at the next level. He will need to prove that he has the athleticism to play on the outside, but Mata’afa’s ridiculous high-motor ability gives him a strong chance to make an impact.

Simply put, the Patriots need to find more players who can rush the passer. He is a bit of an unknown at the next level, but Mata’afa should be able to come in and create pressure.