When the NFL released the results of the draft pick formula earlier this month, it appeared the Patriots had been snubbed. Originally projected to receive three compensatory selections, New England only ended up with two due to a new wrinkle in the formula.
However, in the official draft order released Friday night by the league, the Patriots have three comp picks, adding a fifth rounder to the previous third and fourth already rewarded. In response to press inquiries, a league official explained that the extra comp pick “resulted from a correction by the Management Council to the calculation of average yearly compensation.”
This isn’t the first time the league has struggled with the new formula. When the picks were first released, they were shortly taken down and reposted with a few corrections. It appears this issue pertaining to the Patriots wasn’t caught in that fix.
With their (now three) comp picks set, here’s a look the Patriots’ current draft capital:
- Round 1, Pick 15
- Round 2, Pick 46
- Round 3, Pick 96 (comp pick)
- Round 4, Pick 120
- Round 4, Pick 122 (from Arizona via Houston)
- Round 4, Pick 139 (comp pick)
- Round 5, Pick 177 (comp pick)
- Round 6, Pick 188 (from Houston)
- Round 6, Pick 197
- Round 7, Pick 242
In total, the Patriots have 10 picks in the upcoming draft. With that kind of capital, and limited roster spots due to this week’s free agency spending spree, the team should have the ammunitions to trade up in the first round, should they choose to do so. The draft is just over a month away, with the first round scheduled for April 29.
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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.