While the Patriots remain active in free agency, the draft preparation continues in Foxborough as well. With just over a month left until they’re on the clock, the Patriots prospect meetings are still taking place (virtually, of course).
According to The Draft Network’s Justin Melo, the Patriots have been in touch with LSU defender JaCoby Stevens, who is a hybrid safety/linebacker. Melo lists seven other teams who have been in contact with Stevens as well, but mentions the Patriots have spoken with him “multiple times.”
Early in his college career, the five-star recruit played both wide receiver and safety. He started focusing on just defense as a sophomore, becoming an aggressive versatile safety, playing both deep and in the box. That position shift led to a breakout year in 2019, when he posted 92 tackles, five sacks, and three interceptions in a national championship season.
At 6-foot-2, 230 pounds, Stevens’ lack of top tier speed will probably see him transition to a full time linebacker/box safety at the next level. His size, coupled with his physicality and instincts, should make him an interesting chess pieces for teams who want to be able to stop the run without putting too many big bodies on the field. He has special teams experience as well, which will help is draft stock. Stevens is currently projected as an early Day 3 pick, in part due to the scheme-specific nature of his game.
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