New England Patriots: 5 Sleepers to target in 2018 NFL Draft
5. Kyle Fitts, EDGE, Utah
The free agent addition of Adrian Clayborn will help, but the Patriots currently lack impact pass rushers on the edge. As a whole, the group led by Clayborn, Flowers and 2017 draft picks Derek Rivers and Deatrich Wise Jr. has some talent and upside, but the Pats would be wise to address the position in the upcoming draft.
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Taking a playmaking defensive end early is certainly possible, but if the Patriots decide to wait, Kylie Fitts is a player who would make a ton of sense in the later rounds.
Fitts is an extremely athletic and explosive edge rusher who has some serious upside at the next level. The Utah product struggled with injuries during his college career, but his ability to be a playmaker on the edge is obvious.
Fitts showcases an explosive first step, impressive change of direction quickness and great bend around the edge. He can be an extremely difficult speed rusher for opposing offensive linemen to handle.
His size on the outside is adequate, but Fitts does not show ideal strength at the point of attack. He will struggle at times when setting the edge and can be physical overwhelmed by more powerful offensive linemen.
Like any late-round prospect, Fitts is not a perfect player. But he is an exciting talent who has great upside at a position of need for the New England Patriots. He undoubtedly needs to be on their radar as the draft moves along.