NFL Draft Grades 2018: New England Patriots select Isaiah Wynn at No. 23

Grading the New England Patriots’ selection of Georgia offensive lineman Isaiah Wynn in the 2018 NFL Draft.

In the pick acquired from the Los Angeles Rams in the Brandin Cooks trade, the New England Patriots sat back and took a rock solid offensive lineman to build around. At No. 23 the Patriots selected Georgia offensive lineman Isaiah Wynn.

Wynn was a strong and stable offensive tackle in college who primarily excelled on the left side. He shows an impressive combination of power and athleticism which allows him to have a ton of success in both the run game and in pass protection.

The Georgia product is an extremely clean prospect who does not have any obvious flaws. He has incredible natural technique and instincts up front, consistently putting himself in the best position to make a quality block.

While Wynn played tackle in college, his lack of length and overall size likely makes him an offensive guard at the next level. The Patriots have an obvious need at left tackle, and while some do think that Wynn can play tackle at the next level, he is better suited as a guard, which is less of a need for New England.

Personally, I think the Patriots missed out by one pick on the guy who they really wanted here. The Tennessee Titans traded up to pick 22 to select Alabama linebacker Rashaan Evans. Evans always made a ton of sense for New England, and I believe he would have been the pick at 23. That being said, it is hard to be disappointed with a rock solid player like Isaiah Wynn.

If I were making this pick for the New England Patriots, I would have taken Louisville quarterback Lamar Jackson. I strongly believe that he is an elite quarterback prospect who has a bright future at the next level. I also would have preferred athletic edge rusher Harold Landry in this situation.

Next: Grading each 2018 NFL Draft selection

That being said, I do like Wynn a lot as a prospect and think he is a strong fit in New England. Adding Wynn to the mix gives the Patriots one of the safest prospects in this draft class and an immediate upgrade over Joe Thuney at the left guard position. Very nice selection here.

Patriots Draft Grade: B+