New England Patriots: Early 3-round 2019 mock draft

Round 2: Denzel Mims, WR, Baylor

Let’s assume the New England Patriots did the unthinkable and traded up to grab Lock. This would likely mean they lose one of their second-round picks.

Mocking the Patriots a wide receiver on the second day of the draft doesn’t often pan out. But times are changing and they’ll have a young quarterback. A young quarterback needs weapons. Right now, the Patriots depth chart lacks promise at that position.

Julian Edelman is a fixture in the slot. Matthew Slater and Chris Hogan are decent but not dynamic enough to help a young quarterback. Rob Gronkowski may retire and Josh Gordon will hit restricted free agency this offseason. This draft has the guys out wide to help the Patriots now and later.

One of the better receivers who’ll get a lot of love is Baylor’s Denzel Mims. Mims jumps off the screen because of his combination of size (6-3, 208 ounds) and speed. Winning off the line of scrimmage, using quickness or power, makes Mims special. Mims also does a great job at the top of his routes. He doesn’t have wasted motions when stemming and shows burst on deep routes.

He has long arms and understands leverage on 50/50 balls. He’s an immediate red zone threat with a solid floor and a ton of potential. Mims can come in right away and assume the X or Z position.