Ahead of tonight’s NFL Draft, Scott Zolak gave his prediction of what the Patriots and Bill Belichick will be pulling off in Round 1.

• Patriots trade back with the Buccaneers and draft OT Broderick Jones

  In classic Bill Belichick fashion, the Patriots move back in the first round after making a deal with Jason Licht and the Buccaneers. There’s a solid relationship between the front offices, going back to Licht’s time in New England and the Rob Gronkowski/Shaq Mason deals in recent years.

  Despite moving back to 19, the Patriots still land a massive boost to their offensive line with OT Broderick Jones out of Georgia.

  On Friday, keep an eye on cornerback Deonte Banks out of Maryland in the second round. Wouldn’t shock me if the Patriots have him in mind as part of their return for trading back. Maybe they even trade back into the first tonight to grab him.

• Film of Broderick Jones

  Broderick Jones | OT | UGA
  
  - Elite movement for position
  - Weapon in the open field on runs/screens
  - Power to dig, kick, drive DL out of gaps
  - Great range/depth on kick-slide
  - Can easily cut wide rush angles
  - Torque in pass pro
  - High IQ: helps w/ calls & picking up stunts pic.twitter.com/X1kUFDnxVM

  — Matt Lane (@Matty_KCSN) April 24, 2023

• NFL analyst Bucky Brooks has the #Patriots taking OT Broderick Jones from Georgia in his latest mock draft:
  
  “Adding this physical blocker would complete the Patriots' offensive makeover with an upgrade on the edges.”pic.twitter.com/XrdcwjXjjO

  — Mike Kadlick (@mikekadlick) March 29, 2023

• Broderick Jones - OT #Georgia
  
  📈 Elite Athleticism
  📈 Ideal Frame
  📈 Body Control
  📉 Inexperience
  📉 Inconsistent Technique/Angles
  
  Comparison: Dion Dawkins
  Draft Grade: Round 1
  Potential Fit: #Jets #Patriots
  Position Rank: 3
  Big Board Rank: 17 pic.twitter.com/pnOYnghbzM…

  — SCOUTD (@scoutdnfl) March 27, 2023

• If athleticism is at the top of the list of things you're looking for in an offensive tackle, Broderick Jones (59) of @GeorgiaFootball has to be in your crosshairs. Out of his stance in a hurry and wipes the defender out on this screen.
  
  Was fifth among OT's in RAS at 9.44. pic.twitter.com/wdGBjGjBNZ

  — Glenn Naughton (@JetsPicks) April 22, 2023

• Some footage of Deonte Banks as well...

  Ladies and Gentlemen, Deonte Banks. pic.twitter.com/OsyaZCWMuG

  — PGS NEST  (@NestPgs) April 19, 2023

• Listen to Zo break down his expectations for tonight!

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