New England Patriots complete 7-round 2023 NFL mock draft

Round 6, 186th overall: Viliami Fehoko, EDGE, San Jose State

The addition of BJ Ojulari earlier in this 2023 NFL mock draft would give the New England Patriots some real upside at the edge rusher position. Here, the Pats swing for some stability at that spot.

Viliami Fehoko is a big and powerful edge rusher prospect who consistently plays with a hot motor. Fehoko sets the edge well and is particularly impressive against the run. This prospect is never going to be the most exciting player in the pass-rush department but he can step in and make an impact against the run on day one.

Round 6, 189th overall: Asim Richards, OT, North Carolina

Asim Richards is an interesting swing tackle prospect who wins with physicality and power at the point of attack. He is particularly impressive as a run blocker, driving defenders out of the way with ease a majority of the time.

Richards lacks ideal athleticism up front and that may get him in trouble against speed on the edge. With that in mind, a kick inside to guard may be in his future. Either way, Richards is a solid football player who could add quality depth to the Pats’ offensive line mix.

Round 6, 212th overall: Aubrey Miller Jr., LB, Jackson State

Aubrey Miller Jr. certainly does not fit the bill of what the New England Patriots look for in an off-ball linebacker. At 6-foot-2, 225 pounds, Miller lacks the size to play in the middle of a Bill Belichick defense. That being said, whatever he lacks in size, Miller makes up for in athleticism.

This prospect flies around the field with impressive speed and quickness and always seems to be around the ball. He shined on special teams at Jackson State and has a great chance to do the same at the next level. It is doubtful that Miller would ever see a lot of snaps for the Patriots on the defensive side of the ball, but his ability to make an impact on special teams would appeal to Belichick and company.

Round 7, 247th overall: Arquon Bush, DB, Cincinnati

With the final selection of this 2023 NFL mock draft, the New England Patriots add another prospect to the defensive backfield. Arquon Bush played all over the secondary in college with nickel cornerback standing out as his best position.

Bush lacks ideal athleticism at the cornerback position but he is a smart and instinctual player who shows impressive natural ball skills and is a reliable tackler in space. The Cincinnati product also showed the ability to make an impact on special teams in college. A versatile defensive back who shines on special teams sure sounds like a guy who will catch the attention of the New England Patriots.