New England Patriots: Early April 7-Round 2018 mock draft
The New England Patriots struggled with consistency in the defensive front seven last season. They were not able to create any sort of consistent pressure on the quarterback and were not exactly strong against the run either. The Pats lacked size up front, but in their linebacker corps, it was speed and athleticism that they clearly lacked.
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With their first pick of this mock draft, the Patriots find some serious speed and athleticism at the linebacker position by taking Leighton Vander Esch.
Vänder Esch is a 6-4, 256-pound linebacker who showcases an impressive overall skill set. He is a former basketball star whose athleticism shows up in an obvious way on the football field. Vander Esch’s speed and quickness is obvious, but he also plays with great strength and physicality at the point of attack. The Boise State product can mix it up on the inside against the run and as a blitz weapon.
Leighton Vander Esch is an extremely talented linebacker prospect who has a relatively safe floor and high upside at the next level. He would immediately be a big-time addition to the Patriots’ defensive mix who would also tremendously help them in the long term. Snagging him with the 31st overall pick would be a fantastic selection.