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Report: Patriots have had multiple pre-draft meetings with hybrid LSU defender JaCoby Stevens

While the Patriots remain active in free agency, the draft preparation continues as well. The latest news is a meeting with LSU’s JaCoby Stevens

FAYETTEVILLE, AR - NOVEMBER 21: Jacoby Stevens #7 of the LSU Tigers celebrates after a blocked field goal in the second half of a game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Razorback Stadium on November 21, 2020 in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The Tigers defeated the Razorbacks 27-24. (Photo by (Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

(Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

(Wesley Hitt/Getty Images)

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.

Alex Barth is a writer and digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Thoughts? Comments? Questions? Looking for a podcast guest? Let him know on Twitter @RealAlexBarth or via email at abarth@985TheSportsHub.com.

Alex Barth is a digital content producer and on-air host for 98.5 The Sports Hub. Barth grew up in the Boston area and began covering the New England Patriots, Boston Celtics, and Boston Red Sox in 2017 before joining the Hub in 2020. He now covers all things Boston Sports for 985TheSportsHub.com as well as appearing on air. Alex writes about all New England sports, as well as college football. You can follow him across all social media platforms at @RealAlexBarth.