2021 NFL Mock Draft: Falcons bet on Zach Wilson, Bears tab Trey Lance right after

Kwity Paye absolutely looks the part. Listed at 6-foot-4 and 272-pounds, he’s a force on the edge of the Michigan defense and the New England Patriots need a player like him. Right now, their best edge rusher is Chase Winovich, another Michigan product, and he fits their defense well.

New England is all about having balance all along their line but adding a player capable of anchoring the line is never a bad move. That’s what they get in Paye.

Jimmy Garoppolo is starting to lose his believers. The former Patriots back-up has not only had some ill-timed turnovers, but he’s also been unable to prove he can stay on the field. Garoopolo’s durability concerns are becoming hard to ignore and it’s really derailed the San Francisco 49ers season. On top of that, there are reports that the front office is doubting whether or not he’s the future. And if there are doubts, that all but guarantees he’s not the guy.

In 2021, there’s a chance they could look to move on and there are dots being connected between head coach Kyle Shanahan and Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan. Even if that move comes to fruition, San Francisco needs a younger player to groom.

At No. 16, they get that in Mac Jones. The Alabama gun-slinger fights his way into the first round after a full season with the Tide. He was great in relief of Tua a season ago and even better in 2020.