LISTEN LIVE

Patriots big board for Day 2 of the NFL Draft

With a long-term plan at quarterback now on the roster, the Patriots can turn their attention to building up the rest of their team in the NFL Draft.

Apr 29, 2021; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; A view of the stage before the 2021 NFL Draft at First Energy Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

With a long-term plan at quarterback now on the roster, the Patriots can turn their attention to building up the rest of their team in the final six rounds of the 2021 NFL Draft. That process begins on Friday, with Rounds 2 and 3. The Patriots’ are scheduled to pick at 46 (second-round) and 96 (third-round) overall.

Day 2 is always an interesting one for the Patriots. Of course, there’s their history of second-round defensive backs. In the third round, they’ll have to make a decision on the 96th pick, A.K.A the Tom Brady comp pick. That could turn into a wild trade tree, à la the Jimmy Garoppolo pick in 2018.

There’s also the possibility of a trade. NFL Network’s Mike Giardi said earlier this week the team is concerned with their 50-pick gap, and could look to move up or add assets in between.

As it stands now though, the Patriots are scheduled to make just those two picks, so that’s what we’ll focus on. Here’s some players to watch who project to be on the board at each pick at key positions of need.

For more NFL Draft coverage check out the Patriots Draft Hub 

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.