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Patriots Three Round 2023 Mock Draft Predictions

The 2023 NFL Draft is three weeks away. The Patriots have several holes to fill. With Bill Obrien returning, as Offensive Coordinator, we will predict who the Patriot’s brain trust will select. With the team thin at receivers and linemen head coach, Bill Belichick will certainly be wheeling and dealing his picks.

Round 1 Pick 14 Zay Flowers/WR Boston College

All signals point to the Patriots picking a wide receiver in round one. A perfect fir would be Boston College’s Zay Flowers. Out of all the receivers in this year’s draft, Flowers is the swiftest. An elite route runner, Flowers breaks for huge gains after the catch. He has unique open- field moves.

Flowers have all the tools to be a number- one receiver on any NFL team. The knock on Flowers is his height and weight 5″ 185 pounds. He is the ideal wideout and would change the complexion of the Patriot’s offense. He rarely drops passes, which is a huge plus in New England.

Round 2//CB/Safety/Jartavious Martin/Illinois

This pick can go either way. This is where the draft gets interesting. I have the organization selecting cornerback Jartavious Martin. Martin’s trait is his versatility. He can play either corner or safety. This a trait Bill Belichick relishes.

Martin stands at 6’195 lbs. He registered 51 tackles last season and had 3 interceptions. Martin is an exceptional l tackler. A feisty player, he will depth and intensity to the defensive backfield.

Round 3 Pick 116/ Tyler Steen/OT/ Alabama

Tyler Steen is a mammoth 6′ 6″ 320lb tackle. The advantage of drafting Steen has started since his freshman year. A powerful blocker with good footwork. He takes his blocks to the next level and moves down the field well. With Bill Obrien, the offensive coordinator Steen will settle right in.

Conclusion

This is Bill Belichick’s most important draft. With no playoff wins in four years, rumors are floating around of a possible firing Patriots fans are desperate for a return to post-season. Quarterback Mack Jones and Bill Belichick are at odds Belichick did not like the way Jones sought outside help. That’s why Belichick needs to hit a grand slam in this year’s draft.

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3 Issues Concerning the 2022 New England Patriots

Heading into the 2022 season, I have 3 issues regarding the 2022 New England Patriots. The first is filling the departure of cornerback JC Jackson. Second, is the lack of experience in the linebacking group. Third, is the coaching staff. Will Matt Patricia eventually take over the reins of Offensive, Coordinator? One more concern I have is the development of Mac Jones. In this post, we will review three areas of concern for this year’s Patriots.

Inexperienced Linebacking Group

Outside of Matthew Judon and JaJuan Bentley, the Patriot’s linebacking group is relatively inexperienced. Third-Year man Josh Uche’s snaps have diminished since his rookie season. Second-year man Cameron Magrone has yet to play a down in the NFL. Dolphin castoff Raekwon McMillon is coming off ACL surgery. And Oklahoma product Ronnie Perkins is untested. Despite the question marks, the team needs to stop the run. Anything less is unacceptable.

This year, the Patriots are focusing on speed. Gone are the days of the so-called thumpers such as Jamie Collins and Kyle Van Noy. The key, this year is Matt Judon playing at full strength. In the first half, he was all over the field. But in the second half, his performance slipped a little as did the team.

Can The Coaching Staff Succeed ?

Losing offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels was a significant story in 2021. The long- time assistant accepted a head coaching position with Las Vegas. The organization rehired Matt Patricia and Joe Judge.

As it stands now, Bill Belichick will assume the playcalling duties both offensively and defensively. An idea that I happen to like with a young talented quarterback in Mack Jones.

If the team can stay fairly healthy, I feel it will be a successful season. The Patriots need to play a full four quarters of football in order to have any chance of winning games.

Replacing JC Jackson

The biggest test will be finding a capable replacement for JC Jackson. On draft day Belichick selected two corners in Marcus Jones/Houston and jack Jones/Arizona State. Both had successful college careers. Marcus Jones can return kicks and is known for his strong coverage play. Jack Jones had some off-field issues but has great instincts.

Free agent signings Jabril Peppers and Malcolm Butler will compete for the starting role. Butler hasn’t played in over a year. Replacing Jackson will be the coaching staff’s biggest challenge.

Conclusion

2022 will be one of Bill Belichicks most important. How far will Mack Jones carry them? Can the new-look defense stop the run? Last year the Patriots were third in points allowed with 17.5. Tied for third in takeaways with 30 and tied for eighth in stopping third down conversions. Overall their defense ranked in the NFL’s top ten.

My biggest concern is keeping Mac Jones healthy. Number one pick Cole Strange is expected to start at left guard in 2022. Another issue is finding a capable replacement for Shaq Mason. Mason was dealt to Tampa Bay for a draft pick. I predict the team to go 11=6 in 2022 one game better than 2021.

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Evaluating 3 Area Of Strength For The 2022 Patriots

With, Pre _season a month away, it’s time to evaluate 3 areas of strength for the 2022 Patriots. The team returned to the playoffs in 2021. However,2022 brings new challenges. The organization lost one of the league’s top corners to free agency. In this post, we will review three areas of strength for this year’s New England patriots.

Strong Secondary

Even with the loss of JC Jackson to the Rams, the Patriots still have a respectable secondary. Last season the tandem of Devin McCourty and Andrian Phillips stopped 37 passes for 345 yards against opposing quarterbacks .and had a rating of 71.1 This year the team resigned Malcolm Butler and Jabril Peppers. Plus signed free agent Terrence Mitchell. Safety Devin McCourty ranks 10th in the NFL.

On draft day Bill Belichick added Corberbck Jack Jones from Arizona State and Marcus Jones of Houston. Overall, the secondary ranked 20th in the NFL in 2021.

Coaching

When it comes to coaching, the Patriots have one of the best in NFL history. Overall, Belichick has a 321-156 record for a 673 winning percentage. Only Don Shula has more wins than Belichick with 328 wins. At, 69 years old, he still has a competitive team with a young quarterback on the rise.

In the offseason, the Patriots rehired ex_ Giants coach Joe Judge and still have Matt Patricia. Defensively, the club has promising, Jarod Mayo and Steve Belichick calling the plays. The Patriots did lose long_ time offensive coordinator Josh Mcdaniels to Denver.

Offensive Line

Considering the organization traded Shaq mason, the Patriots still have the best line in the division. The Patriots traded the 21st pick to Kansas City for their 28th pick. With the 28th pick, New England selected Tennessee Chatanoongga guard Cole Strange. Also selected was Chasen Hines of LSU. Third _year tackle Michael Onwenu is the highest graded player by Pro Football Focus. The sad part is that Onwenu was replaced by Trent Brown halfway through the season.

With a younger line, I look for the team to be run_ heavy and much quicker.

Conclusion

With, Mac Jones heading into his sophomore season, fans have reason to be excited. However, there are a lot of questions to be asked. Does Tyquan Thornton have NL potential? Will Trent Brown stay healthy? Can the coaching staff take Mac jones to the next level? These and other questions will take time. My final prediction for the 2022 season 11-6 and one playoff win.

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Three Undrafted 2022 Patriots Free Agents To Watch

It’s time to look at three undrafted free agents to watch. Head coach Bill Belichick is u predictable and is a great roster manipulator. With, mini _camp a month away, it’s time to check out the undrafted players. In this post, we will review three payers undrafted that will battle for a roster spot.

Jake Julien/Punter/Eastern Michigan

Jake Julien is a player to watch. In, 2021, Patriots punter Jake Bailey had three punts blocked. Julien will give Bailey a run for his money. In fifty_four games, at Eastern Michigan, Julien made fifty_one punts. Seventy _one was inside the twenty_yard line.

With Bill Belichick always looking to upgrade, Bailey’s days are in jeopardy. Julien, a Canadien born in Ontario, was drafted in the fourth round of the 2020 Canadien Football League draft.

LaBryan Ray/DL/ Alabama

Injuries prevented LaBryan Ray from being drafted. In four_years with the Crimson Ray missed every season. Ray played in forty_four games, making thirty_seven solo tackles, and thirty-nine assisted tackles, His best season was in 2018, starting in fifteen games.

Ray has the size and frame that NFL coaches love. He specializes in the run and is a decent two _gap player. He fights off double _team coverage consistently. With time, he can contribute to the rotation. Staying healthy will factor in his success.

DeMarcus Mitchell/ Edge/ Purdue

The 6’3″ 265 pounder has great size and athleticism. Playing only in nine games his senior year, he made twenty_ five tackles. In his ultimate game against Tennessee, he recorded four solo tackles. Although he was not present at the combine, he had an exceptional workout in front of scouts at the Purdue Pro day. I look for Mitchell to start off on special teams, working his way into the rotation.

Conclusion

Focusing on offense, it will be interesting to see how the defense plays in 2022. Last season, they were one of the best in the AFC. With a lighter linebacking group, the team is emphasizing speed. As Mac Jones continues to develop, there is always a player undrafted player who makes a statement.

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Patriots Receive Some Coal In Their Stockings

The Patriots received some coal In their stocks Sunday. The team suffered its second consecutive loss at the hands of the Buffalo Bills. Two weeks ago, the Patriots defeated Buffalo. With that loss, they fall to 9-6. Overall, the club failed in all three facets of the game. In this post, we will review three ways the team needs to improve going forward.

Stronger Defensive Stands

The Patriots kept the score close. They just could not capitalize on missed opportunities. Cornerback JC Jackson whiffed on an interception. reserve corner, Myles Bryant played a horrible game. Bills, receiver Isaiah had a career game catching eleven passes. The most he’s ever caught is seven.

Backs Devin Singletary and Zach Moss ran straight through the defensive line. Wideout Stephon Diggs had a huge day ripping apart the secondary. But the real story belonged to quarterback Josh Allen. Allen came to Foxborough with his bag of tricks. For the most part, the Patriots could not stop him.

Eliminate Foolish Penalties

Costly penalties hurt New England Sunday. Christian Barmore got charged with encroachment. David Andrews was flagged for unsportsmanlike. Calls like this helped Buffalo Sunday the Patriots committed eight penalties.

As we have seen in recent years, the Patriots continue to make adjustments. The playoffs are three weeks away. Things need to change.

Receivers Need To get Open

Mac Jones had a long afternoon. His total numbers were 14/32 145 yards passing. Clearly his worst day of the season. Compared to the Saints loss, a 55 % passer rating vs 34 % Sunday against Buffalo. Jones needs receivers open.

Against the Bills, Nelson Agholor was out. That left N Keal Harry, Gunner Olszewski, and Kendrick Bourne. Tight Ends Hunter Renfroe and Jonnu Smith were non _existent. Basically, he had no one to throw to..

Any chance of winning in post _season Jones needs receivers to be open.

Conclusion

Sunday, was the worst played game of the season. Everything from coaching to the defense needs to get better. Blaming Mac Jones is easy. trying, to get him receivers that can get open is another story.

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Questions Facing 2021 Patriots Roster

With the 2021 NFL season a week away, fans are questioning the 2021 Patriots Roster. The head coach spent over $160.000,000 The most in franchise history. They drafted a quarterback with the 15the pick in the NFL Draft. New faces will be on the field and time will tell how this team responds. In this post, we will evaluate three areas that the team needs to focus on.

Quarterback Experience/Depth

Last week the organization released Cam Newton. Newton, the controversial starter, suddenly got released. Rumors of vaccination issues quickly spread. Realistically, Cam Newton was beat out by rookie Mac Jones.

The future is now with Mac Jones leading the way. The biggest question can move the Patriot’s offense. And the next question is can he stay healthy. With a deep offensive line and backfield, Jones should be OK. The growing pains will show. Patience from the fans and coaches will be vital.

With new receivers and two new tight ends, Jones should be successful. If the receivers can hold on to the ball and get open, Jones is the perfect quarterback to lead them. One area that needs improvement is receivers holding onto the ball. Last season, the team was one of the worst for dropping passes.

No Stephon Gilmore

With, pre _season over, Stephon Gilmore has yet to be on the field. Gilmore was assigned to the PUP list. Contract talks continue to stall and the Patriots backfield is not as strong as it once was.

The team added cornerback Shaun Wade from Baltimore. Wade, an Ohio State product, was considered a high draft pick, but an injury deterred his stock.

Special Teams Concerns

The Patriots signed undrafted kicker Quinn Nordin out of Michigan. With, Nordin’s signing, Nick Folk is on the practice squad. The issue is Nordin has no NFL experience. Last year’s kicker Nick Folk was effective but was beat out by Nordin. Nordin impressed the Patriots coaches this summer.

Conclusion

With, the offseason roster revamped fans are curious about the upcoming season. All eyes are on Mac Jones. Cam Newton’s work ethic was debatable. Last season Newton did not execute one hurry_up exercise. The Hurry_up is a vital play for any NFL team. Overall, I look for the Patriots to go 10-7 for the 2021 NFL season.

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Patriots Enter Free Agency With A Bang

Tuesday the Patriots, entered the NFL Free Agency with a bang. They added 8 pieces the most team history. Coming to terms were tight end Jonu Smith, defensive end Matthew Judon from Baltimore, wide receiver Nelson Agholor from the Raiders, Defensive end Henry Anderson of the Jets. Other signings were Davon Godchaux defensive tackle from the Jets, Jalen Mills Defensive back from Philadelphia. As of Wednesday, they locked up tight end Hunter Henry from the LA Chargers. In this post, we will review three reasons why these signings will improve the Patriots in 2021.

Tight End Position Addressed

For the first time in three seasons, the Patriots strengthened the tight end department. Si With the addition of Hunter Henry and Jonu Smith, quarterback Cam Newton has two huge targets to work with.

The 2020 draft class of Dalton Keene and Devin Asiasi did not pan out. Outside of Asiasi and Keene, the club has Ryan Izzo and Matt LaCosse. In 16 games last tight end department accounted for only 7 catches. Both Henry and Smith are elite blockers, which is a significant upgrade.

How Much Are They Improved From 2020?

The next question is how much are they improved from 2020. Head coach Bill Belichick has completely reshaped the roster. Jonu Smith and Hunter Henry are a significant upgrade. Edge rusher Matthew Judon is an All_Pro pass _ rusher.

In, Hunter Henry, the team is getting a quality tight end. In five seasons as a Charger, he has caught 196 receptions for 21 touchdowns. He is also an excellent blocker. Jonu Smith on the other hand provides many skills. He is one of the best route runners in the league and possesses excellent blocking skills. In, four years at Tennessee, he totaled 114 receptions and 16 touchdowns.

By signing Hunter and Smith, it marks the first time since the successful duo of Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.

Risky Moves Versus Quality Moves

Receivers Nelson Agholor and Kendrick Bourne are considered risky. In four years as an Eagle, Agholor had two decent seasons. In Kendrick Bourne, the team is getting another slot receiver. Overall, they should give the offense a huge boost.

As for the quality signings Hunter Henry, Jonu Smith, and Matthew Judon are all skilled players. Defensive back Jalen Mills brings stability and depth to the defensive backfield.

Conclusion

In all the signings fans have renowned hope in the Patriots again. Losing Tom Brady and Rob Gronkowski was a culture shock. It was nice to see the Patriots being aggressive.

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Matt Patricia Returning Will Be Beneficial For Patriots

The Patriots announced last week, that former Defensive coordinator Matt Patricia will be returning to the organization. Patricia has served the Patriots in many capacities as a defensive coach. He first joined the team in 2004 as an offensive coordinator. a year later he switched over to the defensive side as a linebacking coach. He was also part of the success by winning two Super Bowls. In this post, we will review three reasons why a Matt Patricia return will benefit the 2021 Patriots.

Familiar With The Defense

Matt Patricia has served under Bill Belichick since 2004. During that span, he has seen many great players develop under his leadership. Players such Teddy Bruschi, Richard Seymour, Vince Wilforkhttp Devin McCourty, and Chandler Jones have all performed under Matt Patricia.

Last season, the team was last in stopping the run. Overall, New England allowed 5 yards per carry. One of its’s worst seasons under head coach Bill Belichick.

Front Seven Needs To Be Restructured

For years, New England has been known for their front seven. With players leaving and opt_outs the organization has suffered significantly. New faces have been leaving an impression on the coaching staff. Second_year linebacker Chris Winovich is developing into a team leader. Linebacker Josh Uche has shown he can make a solid contribution. And safety Kyle Duggar will compete for a starting spot next season.

The team finished 11th in the NFL last season. With the addition of Matt Patricia, the Patriot’s defense will be exciting to watch. With several holes to fill, this year’s draft will be interesting.

With ten draft picks available drafting defense, and a quarterback will be a priority. Players returning next season after opting out will be another issue. Linebacker Donta Hightower may retire. And Devin McCourty. Matt Patricia returning may prove significant with these decisions.

Excellent Working Relationship With Bill Belichick

During his 14 year tenure, Matt Patricia has shared brilliant success with Bill Belichick. Two Super Bowls were won under his leadership. A lot needs to be done in order to get back to Super Bowl _caliber.

New England has 60 million dollars in cap space available. Stopping the run was the club’s biggest weakness last season. If the Patriots spend their money wisely, the playoffs are possible.

Conclusion

The Patriots are at a crossroads. A well _thought game plan is a must this off _season. Step number one is a quarterback, Step number two is stronger defense, step number three is to get back to the Super Bowl.

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Patriots Success In 2020 Hinges Solely On The Defense

With the 2020 NFL season kicking off Sunday, The Patriot’s success hinges solely on the defense. With a new quarterback in Cam Newton, the team’s defense will be the key to their success., Last season, for example, the defense led the league in interceptions 23 and blocked punts 6. In this post, we will review three reasons the defense will be a major role in the organization’s outcome.

Patriots Success IN 2020 Hinges Solely On  The Defense                                                                                                                                                               

League High In Opt _Outs  For starters, the Patriots had a league_ high of eight opt_ outs. Team captain Donta Hightower is the most notable member to sit out the season.  After Hightower, the next player is Patrick Chung. Chung is a vital contributor to the third downs. Other missing pieces are Duron Harmon and Elandon Roberts.

Head coach Bill Belichick installing youth movement on defense. Josh Uche, Anfernee Jennings, and Chase Winovich, and Jonathan Simon will lead the linebacking unit.

As for pass coverage, that remains the team’s strongest area.  Third_Year man JC Jackson has emerged as one of the leagues best. Stephon Gilmore is the best shut down back in the game.

Difficulty In Stopping the Run, The Patriot’s biggest challenge last year was stopping the run. Lamar Jackson of the Ravens had a field day mid_ way through the season last year.                

 Tennessee’s Derrick Henry ran for 183 yards in the wild card game.  If the Patriots have any hope of postseason dreams, they have to stop the run _heavy teams.                         

 

Front Seven Needs To Step It Up With the loss of Donta Hightower, the team will have to rely on the front seven. Adam Butler, Dieatrich Wise, and Lawrence Guy need to apply pressure. Newly signed Beau Allen has yet to step on the field.

Conclusion   The landscape has changed without Tom Brady. The Patriots have the game’s best head coach in Bill Belichick. With a thin receiving group,  Cam Newton has his challenges.  Look for a strong running game, especially from Cam Newton. My prediction is the Patriots will go 7-10 with Cam Newton calling the signals.

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Weighing In On The Patriots Opting Out Issues

It has been a trying 2020 offseason for the Patriots. The team is dealing with a slew of opting _out issues. Coved 19 is jeopardizing the upcoming season. Leading the way on the opt _out lists are Dont’a Hightower, Marcus Cannon, Brandon Bolden, Patrick Chung, and Danny Vitale. Hightower is the quarterback of the defense. If anymore opt_ out head coach Bill Belichick will have a problem on his hands. In this post, we will weigh in on the Patriots opt_out issues.

Weighing In On The Patriots Team Opting Out Issues                                                       

 Conspiracy Theorist Experts Taking Over  Events like opting_out promote conspiracy theories. Especially when they surround the Patriots. Bill Belichick is not the most popular person. With, Tom Brading signing with Tampa Bay this only sparks conspiracy The Patriots have been a victim of Spygate and Deflategate. Opting_out  from playing only makes it worse. With training camp underway, the next couple of weeks should be interesting. This makes suitable conversation for the local talk shows and podcasts.

Key Players Opting Out The Patriots defense will be seriously a Dante Hightower has been the leader for several years. Patrick Chung is a valuable cog in the defensive backfield. Without either, the Patriots will have to trade or sign an available free agent. Starting a rookie means growing pains and defeats.

The Team  Awarded Extra Cap Space  Before training camp, the club was awarded extra cap space.  The team came to terms on the Antonio Brown contract, and Aron Hernandez estate.

Instead of being under 1,000,000 dollars, the club has an additional  7.5 million dollars in cap space. Some names to keep an eye on are  James Harrison defensive tackle and edge rusher, Jedaveon Clowney.  Clowney would provide leadership left by Hightower. I personally like defensive tackle, James Harrison. Only 31 years old he’s a versatile run stopper.  He has recently played for the Jets and Lions.

Looking Ahead Depending on the pandemic the NFL season could be at stake. Players are opting_out  to protect their families. The Patriots have been one of the hardest _hit teams.  With the loss of Tom Brady and others, it could be a long season for Patriots fans.