Three picks, and three defensive selections for the Patriots. With their second scheduled pick of Day 2 -the 76th overall pick in the draft – the Patriots selected Sacramento State linebacker/safety Marte Mapu.

Mapu was a two-year starter for the Hornets. In 13 games in 2022 he recorded 76 tackles with 6.5 for a loss, with six pass breakups and two interceptions. He was named Big Sky Defensive Player of the Year after the season.

• The most interesting thing about Mapu is enters the NFL somewhat positionless. While listed at a linebacker, he’d be a significantly undersized for the position at the NFL level at 6-foot-3, 217 pounds. At Sacramento State he lined up all around the field so he could move to safety at the next level, or bulk up and stay at linebacker. He also figures to be a key special teams contributor.

  Despite his size, Mapu is a hard-hitter with a nose for the football. He also can be a factor in coverage, which he showed with a strong performance at the Senior Bowl.

• By selecting Mapu the Patriots have used their first three selections – and all three scheduled top 100 picks – on the defensive side of the ball. They began the draft by taking cornerback Christian Gonzalez, then added defensive end Keion White to start Day 2.

  Pending a trade back up into the third round, the Patriots are now done on Day 2. They’ll be back on the clock early on Day 3, with the 107th pick the first of their four scheduled fourth-round selections.

• 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 [email protected].

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