Cornerback is arguably the Patriots’ biggest roster need heading into the 2022 NFL Draft. After the departure of J.C. Jackson, the team lacks a clear starter on the outside as well as rotational depth.

Not only would it make sense for the Patriots to draft a cornerback, but also do invest a high pick at the position. On Tuesday, the Felger & Mazz Big Board picked three projected top-60 players at the position. Will any of these players be future Patriots?

Kaiir Elam, Florida

Florida Gators cornerback Kaiir Elam (5) in coverage against Florida Atlantic Owls wide receiver Je’Quan Burton (82) during a game against the Florida Atlantic Owls at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville Fla. Sept. 4, 2021. (Brad McClenny/The Gainesville Sun via Imagn Content Services)

Strengths:

–Desired size, length and strength for press man
–Able to swivel hips and pursue with fluidity
–Squeezes deep sideline routes with physicality

Weaknesses:

–Loses his leverage unnecessarily
–Needs better open-and-sprint timing when squatting underneath
–Inconsistent digesting route combinations

(Source: NFL.com)

Martin Emerson, Mississippi State

Dec 31, 2020; Fort Worth, TX, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs cornerback Martin Emerson (1) breaks up a pass intended for Tulsa Golden Hurricane wide receiver Sam Crawford Jr. (9) during the second half at Amon G. Carter Stadium. Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Strengths:

–Uncoils relatively stiff punch to slow the release
–Closes and crowds when the route tracks deep
–Punt and kick cover talent

Weaknesses:

–Too content to bat it away instead of taking it away
–Not very competitive taking on blocks
–Premature dives at ankles

(Source: NFL.com)

Kyler Gordon, Washington

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – NOVEMBER 26: Kyler Gordon #2 of the Washington Huskies reacts after a stop against the Washington State Cougars during the first quarter at Husky Stadium on November 26, 2021 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Strengths:

–Well-equipped to play cornerback or nickel
–Fluidity buoyed by harmony of hips and feet
–Plant-and-drive juice is on a different level

Weaknesses:

–Coverage can get a little too cute at times
–Doesn’t fully trust his eyes just yet
–Will need to balance urgency with patience

(Source: NFL.com)

Listen

Segment starts at 23:10: