NFL Mock Draft 2012: Patriots Projected To Pick Shea McClellin, Brandon Boykin

As the 2012 NFL Draft draws closer, Pro Football Talk released its final mock draft, which gives some insight into who the New England Patriots might be looking at selecting with their two late first round picks. For now, it looks as if they're targeting Shea McClellin, a linebacker from Boise State, at No. 27 and Brandon Boykin, a cornerback from Georgia, with their No. 31 overall pick.

The No. 27 pick comes from the New Orleans Saints. There has also been some speculation that the Patriots could trade one of the picks to move lower in the draft for more picks. The Boston Globe's mock draft has the team trading the No. 31 selection to the Indianapolis Colts.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: Boston Globe Projects Patriots Will Take Trumaine Johnson

With the NFL draft slated to begin in just under four hours, the common question remains: who will the New England Patriots select at No. 27 and No. 31 -- the team's two first round picks? ESPN's Todd McShay projects the team to select Alabama linebacker Courtney Upshaw and Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith.

Earlier, the Boston Globe also released its final mock draft, which varies from McShay, slightly. The Globe has the Pats taking Montana cornerback Trumaine Johnson and Stanford tight end Cody Fleener in a trade with the Indianapolis Colts.

On Johnson:

Outlook: New England will try to deal one of its picks in the first round - maybe both - because value is not good here. Bill Belichick has never taken an OLB or WR in the first round. The team's biggest weakness was big plays defensively. They need more talented players in the secondary and Johnson, despite some character concerns, fits the bill. Could be available later if Patriots trade back.

On Fleener:

Outlook: The Patriots won't be taking another TE. But with the Giants really needing one at the next pick, some team (Colts or Panthers?) will want to jump them to grab the draft's clear top TE, which has become a position of desire, or QB Brandon Weeden. Fleener and Andrew Luck were college teammates. If the Patriots stay, OLB Vinny Curry, WR Stephen Hill, DTs Devon Still, Jerel Worthy and Kendell Reyes would be considered. Curry would be the favorite.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: Todd McShay Projects Patriots Will Take Courtney Upshaw, Harrison Smith

This weekend is ESPN Todd McShay's Super Bowl. After all, he dedicates his professional life to the study of the NFL Draft, and works tirelessly to evaluate and project where players will land to start their NFL careers.

He's released his final first round mock draft, and not surprisingly, he has the Patriots targeting a pass rusher and some secondary help.

At pick 27, McShay likes the Patriots to take Courtney Upshaw, a defensive end/outside linebacker out of Alabama. Bill Belichick and Alabama head coach Nick Saban are long-time friends, and it would make sense for the Patriots to target a player Saban has previously praised.

As for pick 31, McShay could see New England turning to Harrison Smith from Notre Dame, a safety. He's considered by most to be the second highest-rated safety in this year's class.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: Patriots Pick Up Shea McClellin, Harrison Smith

Given the fact that the New England Patriots don't select until pick number 27 in the first round of the NFL Draft, it's difficult to dig inside of the mind of head coach Bill Belichick to decipher what the team will do, but a pair of mock draft see it going the same way.

MockingTheDraft.com and Ryan Van Bibber of SBNation.com both released final mock drafts, and each had the Patriots taking Shea McClellin of Boise State at pick 27 and Harrison Smith of Notre Dame at pick 31.

Here's MTD's analyses first:

McClellin: "Pick a pass rusher, any pass rusher, and expect it to be the Patriots' pick (barring a trade out). McClellin is a good athlete, but never had the production to generate much initial buzz. Now he's a hot name for most 3-4 teams. While the Patriots run more 4-3 sets, a player like McClellin could held up well in either."

Smith: "Any level of the defense could be the direction the Patriots go (again, if they keep the pick). This pick could be a player like Marshall's Vinny Curry, a cornerback or a lineman. So why Smith? Because after him, there's a massive drop off in talent at the position. In all honesty, though, this could be the pick a team trades into to select quarterback Brandon Weeden."

And Van Bibber's:

McClellin: "This week marks the first time McClellin has been to New York City, leaving is hometown of about 1,000 residents He might want to get used to the city, considering he could play here and add to the indignities the Patriots heap upon the Jets each season."

Smith: "A late entrant that Mayock has turned the world onto, the Patriots are not afraid of reaching for a pick, or at least what some may consider a reach. Belichick will probably trade, one direction or another, but he has to add a safety."

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

NFL Draft 2012: TV Schedule, Start Time And More

The day that the NFL -- and especially Indianapolis Colts -- fans have been waiting for is finally here, as the NFL Draft is set to kick off on Thursday night.

Here's the low-down on what you need to know prior to the start of round one.

The event can be viewed on both ESPN and NFL Network, with superb analysis and insight available on each. The draft officially begins at 8:00 p.m. EST on Thursday night, with just the first round taking place.

Rounds two and three will go down on Friday, while the final four rounds will be held Saturday.

The Patriots, of course, don't select until pick 27, so count on a late night if you want to see them makes its first of two first-round choices.

It won't take so long to see Boston College Luke Kuechly hear his name called, as he is widely considered a top-half of the first round selection.

For more Patriots coverage, visit our team page and blog, Pats Pulpit . For NFL Mock Drafts, visit our stream and check out Mocking The Draft. Prospect profiles can be found at the National Football Post. Visit SB Nation's NFL Draft hub for more coverage.

Mel Kiper Final Mock Draft 2012: Courtney Upshaw, Harrison Smith Selected For New England Patriots

With the NFL Draft finally commencing tomorrow, ESPN NFL Draft Analyst Mel Kiper has released his final mock draft for the first round. Kiper projects the Patriots drafting Alabama linebacker Courtney Upshaw with the No. 27 overall pick and Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith with the No. 31 overall pick

Both picks would help a defense that struggled mightily at times last year. Upshaw is 6-foot-2, 272 pound outside linebacker who plays with a lot of strength and could be a solid fit around some other talented players. Smith is a 6-foot-2, 213-pound safety who can play the ball well and isn't afraid to be physical.

Kiper thinks Upshaw is a solid all-around player that Bill Belichick typically likes.

Upshaw doesn't have the elite measurables, and he's not a speed merchant. What he can do is immediately help a defense with his skills as a pass-rusher and his willingness to use leverage and vision to do damage against the run. This is the kind of complete player Bill Belichick goes for, and he's a nice value here at a need position.

Kiper thinks the Patriots could take a corner, but Smith would be a valuable pick late in the first round.

The Patriots will address the pass rush with one of the first two picks, but I think they'll also look for help in the secondary if they like the value. Smith is a very good player. He takes great routes to the ball and he doesn't shy away when he's closer to the line and has to take on runners. Corner could be a target here, but Smith also makes your coverage better.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates. For more mock draft information, check out Mocking The Draft.Prospect profiles can also be found at the National Football Post, an SB Nation partner.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Seven Round Mock Selections

With the 2012 NFL Draft rapidly approaching, mock drafts are being fired out at warp speed.

This of course is all fun and gives everyone something to talk about until Mr. Goodell walks up to the podium and announces "With the first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft, the Indianapolis Colts select..."

Then the real thing has begun and all the mocks are cast aside. Alas, we're not at that point yet. So it's time to appreciate the work of Chad Reuter of NFL.com, who provides us with a can-you-handle-it seven round blowout.

Without further hyperbole, the New England Patriots picks:

1st Round: Courtney Upshaw - OLB/DE - Alabama

1st Round:Kendall Reyes - DT - UCONN

2nd Round:Janoris Jenkins - CB - North Alabama

2nd Round: Lamar Miller - RB - Miami (FL)

3rd Round: Ryan Broyles - WR - Oklahoma

4th Round: No Pick

5th Round: No Pick

6th Round: No Pick

7th Round: No Pick

This would be a great draft for New England in many ways.

First of all, Upshaw and Reyes would absolutely fortify the front seven which has been lacking for years now. Upshaw provides versatility which is something Bill Belichick is always looking for.

Miller would provide nice competition to Stevan Ridley and perhaps both of them could form a nice tandem behind Tom Brady.

Broyles was hurt badly last year for the Sooners, but if he's healthy he could really be a great pick. Broyles has ability and on a team looking for receivers he could fit in nicely.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NFL Draft 2012: Troy Brown Will Announce Patriots' 2nd And 3rd Round Picks

The 2012 NFL Draft is just a couple of days away and will be one of the most talented pools of prospects in recent memory. This year's version of the draft has been extremely highly anticipated and the NFL has put the hype machine for the draft into overdrive. In addition to booking Radio City Music Hall in New York for the event, the league has invited a record number of prospects to the Big Apple to be part of the hoopla and celebration.

The NFL is also reaching out to some all-time greats to represent each team and announce later-round picks. The Boston Patriots announced on Monday -- via their official team Twitter feed -- that former Pats wide receiver and three-time Super Bowl champion Troy Brown will announce the second- and third-round picks for the team on Friday.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Linked To Chandler Jones And Jerel Worthy

In the latest SB Nation NFL Mock Draft by Ryan Van Bibber, the New England Patriots are slated to take Chandler Jones and Jerel Worthy with their 27th and 31st overall picks respectively.

Jones is a defensive end out of Syracuse who has been rising on draft boards in the last few weeks. For most of the process he was deemed as a likely second round selection but with the premium being put on pass-rushers, Jones is a hot commodity.

Worthy is a good looking defensive tackle from Michigan State who could really help to solidify the New England front.

Worthy has been labeled by some pundits as a man unwilling to give his best effort. Whether that's fair or not remains to be seen, but his talent can't be denied.

If these players went to the Patriots, it would be a nice start on rebuilding the defense. Bill Belichick would most certainly like a return to the glory days of Tedy Bruschi and Willie McGinest among others.

For more on the Patriots, please be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Select Mike Martin and Miles Burris

The National Football Post is working on a seven-round NFL Mock draft, over the course of a week. Recently they finished the third and fourth rounds. See who they have the Patriots taking.

Third Round

93. New England Patriots: Mike Martin DT, Michigan

The kind of prospect you don't want to bet against. Is limited and doesn't have the kind of frame to get all that bigger, but I can see him working his way into a rotation as a 43 nose in the NFL and being the kind of guy coaches love.

Fourth Round

126. New England: Miles Burris OLB, San Diego State

A nasty, hard working football player who displays good instincts, a great motor and a lot of explosive elements to his game. At worst, Burris is a stud special teams guy with the ability to start at the next level. He can play either inside or out as well.

Check out Mocking The Draft's overall prospect rankings, or for more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft, New England Patriots: Peter King Selects Nick Perry, DE/OLB, USC

In Sports Illustrated's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Peter King projects the New England Patriots to trade one of their first-round picks (these are the Patriots, after all) and use the other to select Nick Perry, a defensive end/outside linebacker from USC.

King believes the Patriots will trade the No. 27 pick for value and use the No. 31 pick on Perry.

All those who know what the Patriots are going to do with this pick, raise your hands. O.K., anybody besides Mike Mayock? After losing Mark Anderson in free agency and without knowing whether soon-to-be 33-year-old Andre Carter will be back -- those two combined for 20 of the Pats' 40 sacks in 2011 -- New England needs an edge rusher. Perry's my best guess.

The National Football Post writes that Perry could stand to improve his pad level, but projects as someone who can impact a team immediately with his pass-rushing abilities off the edge.

Check out Mocking The Draft's overall prospect rankings, or for more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NFL Draft 2012: Mike Lombardi Believes Patriots Should Hold On To Ryan Mallet

Never have quarterbacks been valued more towards the top of the NFL draft than they are today, but the Patriots managed to steal former Arkansas quarterback Ryan Mallett down in the third round of the 2011 draft as questions surrounding his attitude and character apparently steered teams away.

Now, with so many teams in the market for an upgrade at quarterback, Mallet would figure to be an attractive carrot to dangle for New England, with Tom Brady firmly entrenched as the starter for at least a few more years.

Mike Lombardi of the NFL Network doesn't believe the Patriots should move Mallet now, however, particularly with fellow backup Brian Hoyer set to be a free agent after 2012. Rather, he feels the Patriots ought to hold on to Mallett to find out exactly what type of player he will become down the road.

For the entirety of the video, which was conducted by Comcast Sports Net New England's Tom E. Curran as part of a Patriots draft preview show, click here.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NFL Draft: Harrison Smith Likes Patriots' Way

The Patriots are in need of secondary help. Former Notre Dame safety Harrison Smith is a player many project to be picked around the end of the first round, where the Patriots pick at both 27 and 31.

Seems like a good enough match, right?

Well, Smith seems to agree with that notion, as he expressed in a recent interview with Comcast Sports Net New England's Tom E. Curran, which you can watch the entirety of here.

Smith has a connection to New England, having played for longtime Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weis during his tenure as the Notre Dame head coach. And while Weis wasn't responsible for the defense in New England, he brought along aspects of the operation that Bill Belichick and the Patriots employ when he took over in South Bend.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Projected To Take Mark Barron, Nick Perry In Latest Mock Draft

In the latest National Football Post 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the New England Patriots have been projected to select Alabama safety Mark Barron and USC linebacker/defensive end Nick Perry (via NFP).

We've seen both of these picks for the Patriots in a mock draft before last month. Barron was the 27th pick and Perry was the 31st pick of the first round. Here's what NFP's Wes Bunting said about Barron:

New England has had to piece together their secondary this year, but in terms of talent they could certainly use an upgrade at a number of spots. Barron is a smart, instinctive safety with good ball skills, can play in the box and be effective bumping/running with tight ends underneath.

With Perry, Bunting pointed out his versatility as well:

Perry has worked out well all post-season and is a versatile 43 DE or 34 OLB prospect who could line-up all over. His versatility on third down gives the Patriots even more options in pressure situations.

Check out Mocking The Draft's overall prospect rankings.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Luke Kuechly Projected To Go To Chiefs In Latest National Football Post Mock Draft

Former Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly has been projected to end up with the Kansas City Chiefs in yet another version of the National Football Post's 2012 NFL Mock Draft (via NFP).

The Chiefs have the No. 11 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft. Kuechly has been projected to go after the 10th pick and before the 15th pick in most mock drafts.

Wes Bunting said about Kuechly

With the need at offensive tackle addressed in free agency the Chiefs can now look at one of the safest players available in the front seven. Kuechly is a tackling machine with good size, natural instincts and above-average athleticism. Is the kind of talent who can make an impact inside from day one.

Check out Mocking The Draft's overall prospect rankings.

For all of the latest BC news and information, head over to BC Interruption. And for all your NFL draft coverage, check out Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Linked To Mark Barron and Whitney Mercilus

With the 27th and 31st overall picks, the New England Patriots definitely have some firepower in the upcoming 2012 NFL Draft.

In the latest mock draft by SB Nation's very own Ryan Van Bibber, the Patriots are slated to select safety Mark Barron from Alabama and Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus.

Barron would be a steal if he falls all the way to 27th. The national champion is far and away the best safety in the draft (with my apologies to Harrison Smith of Notre Dame). Barron can play like a center fielder in coverage but also come up into the box and stuff a ball-carrier.

Mercilus would replace Mark Anderson and give New England some much needed pass rush. The big concern with Mercilus is that he's only had one big season and done little else at the college level. Whether or not he's a one-year wonder might scare some teams off.

Either way, this would be a great haul for a team in desperate need of defensive help.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and updates.

NFL Draft 2012, Luke Kuechly: Walter Football Mocks BC Linebacker To Seattle Seahawks

Boston College linebacker, Luke Kuechly, is one of the more highly-touted prospects in the 2012 NFL Draft. He's the consensus top linebacker available and projected to go in the top half of the first rounds. The most common landing spot for Kuechly in mock drafts has been the Kasas City Chiefs, but Walter Football has the Seahawks taking him with the 12th pick in their recent mock.

Luke Kuechly was phenomenal at the Combine. Some scouts thought he would run a 4.8 in Indianapolis, but he silenced his critics when he showed off his terrific athleticism.

Kuechly is the best player available who makes sense for the Seahawks. They desperately need an inside linebacker because they lost David Hawthorne. Why not select the top inside linebacker in the 2012 NFL Draft?

They list the Panthers, Bills and Cheifs as other possibilities for Kuechly.

Check out Mocking The Draft's overall prospect rankings.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Projected To Select Whitney Mercilus, Kendall Reyes In SB Nation Mock Draft

The New England Patriots are projected by SB Nation bloggers in their 2012 NFL Mock Draft to select Whitney Mercilus 27th (DE, Illinois) and Kendall Reyes (DT, Connecticut) 31st overall (via SB Nation).

Our Patriots blog Pats Pulpit made the selections and felt that the Patriots need to use their two First Round picks (27th and 31st) to improve the front seven on the defensive side of the ball.

On the Mercilus pick, Pats Pulpit said:

The Patriots will likely want to add pieces at wide receiver, running back, interior offensive line, and 5-technique at some point in this draft. However, at 27, Illinois' Whitney Mercilus possesses too much value to pass up at a position of need. While some are labeling Mercilus a "one year wonder," there's no denying his talent or explosion as a pass rusher. He is relentless getting after the quarterback, and is always playing all-out in effort (unlike another prospect I considered, Penn State DT/DE Devon Still). He still has some work to go on his technique, but the athleticism and potential are definitely there. He has the size/speed the Patriots look for in their outside linebackers (6'4", 261 lbs, 4.68 40 yard dash), and even if he did not work out as an outside linebacker, he'd still be able to play a majority of the team's snaps in four man fronts and sub-packages. At some point, the Patriots need to take a risk on a pass rusher who has high potential. Mercilus would be the perfect candidate for that.

About Reyes, Pats Pulpit said:

After picking up Illinois defensive end / outside linebacker Whitney Mercilus with the 27th pick, I have the Patriots continuing to upgrade their front seven with the selection of Connecticut defensive lineman Kendall Reyes with the 31st pick. While the Patriots could very well trade out of one of their two first round spots, they have a pressing need to add talent at the 5-technique position this draft. While Brandon Deaderick, Jonathan Fanene, and Ron Brace can start as needed, none have a very high ceiling. Kendall Reyes would offer that for the Patriots. He's got good size (6'4", 299 pounds), athleticism, and work ethic. He could probably jump into the defensive line rotation as an one-gap interior rusher as a rookie, and be a starter at defensive end in the base 3-4 by year two.

Mercilus is a pick we've seen projected to the Patriots often but the Reyes pick has been made much less often. He did play in the region and was an All-Big East performer which might give the Patriots staff some familiarity with what he has to offer.

For more on the Patriots head to Pats Pulpit, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.

NFL Draft 2012, Luke Kuechly: Another Mock Ties Boston College Linebacker To Kansas City

With the first round of the NFL draft now just two weeks away, the future of Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly is becoming increasingly clearer by the day. The consensus from most draftniks is that he'll wind up in the top half of the first round, it is simply a matter of which team will select the nation's leader tackler in 2011.

ESPN's Todd McShay has released his latest mock draft, and in it he projects Kuechly to land with the Kansas City Chiefs, a conclusion to his draft fortune that many others share.

McShay describes the addition of Kuechly in Kansas City as a "slam dunk," and believes that he and Derrick Johsnon would immediately form one of the top pairs of 3-4 inside linebackers in the league.

And while McShay ultimately feels he'll end up with the Chiefs, he doesn't rule out Miami, Buffalo, Seattle, or even Philadelphia as potential landing spots for Kuechly as well.

For more on the Patriots head to Pats Pulpit, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Todd McShay Examines Patriots Options

The New England Patriots are one of two teams with a pair of first round picks in the forthcoming NFL draft, and ESPN's Todd McShay has revealed how the team could be thinking when it's time to make each of them in his latest mock draft.

The draft can be unpredictable, and McShay laid out five scenarios relating to the Patriots first pick, 27th overall:

- His actual projection has the Patriots taking USC defensive end/outside linebacker Nick Perry, a potential pass rushing force.

Other options include:

- Beef up the defensive line with one of three players: Michael Brockers of LSU, Jerel Worthy of Michigan State, or Kendall Reyes of UConn.

- Draft Wisconsin center Peter Konz, with an eye towards building the offensive line for the future.

- Take fast-rising safety Harrison Smith to address what was a woeful secondary in 2011.

- Do what Bill Belichick does better than anyone else, and find a trade partner in order to acquire additional picks in what is a deep draft.

McShay has a slightly more direct view on what the Patriots should do at pick 31, and that is take Jerel Worthy, who he believes can become a "disruptive" player for New England.

For more on the Patriots head to Pats Pulpit, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Chandler Jones, Jerel Worthy Projected To Go To Patriots In Latest SI Mock Draft

In the latest Sports Illustrated 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Don Banks projects the Patriots to use the 27th pick to select Chandler Jones (DE, Syracuse) and the 31st pick to select Jerel Worthy (DT, Michigan State).

Here's what Banks said about Jones:

(From New Orleans). The Patriots have some quality options to choose from in their search for a versatile player who can play both end and outside linebacker in their 3-4 multiple-front schemes. Getting younger and more athletic in the front seven is a must this season in Foxboro.

And Banks said about Worthy:

If the Patriots don't trade out of their second first-rounder, Worthy would be an excellent value and adds another talented and versatile prospect to New England's defensive front seven.

Worthy has come up more than once for the Patriots in mock drafts. Jones is also a frequent mock draft pick for the Patriots. Even when they don't come up in the mock draft results, it seems pretty clear that New England is going with a defensive selection in the first round.

For more on the Patriots head to Pats Pulpit, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Luke Kuechly Projected To Go To Chiefs In Latest SI Mock Draft

Former Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly is projected by Don Banks to be selected by the Kansas City Chiefs with the No. 11 pick in the 2012 NFL Draft in the latest Sports Illustrated mock draft (via SI).

Banks said about Kuechly

If the Chiefs aren't upwardly mobile in pursuit of quarterback Ryan Tannehill (see No. 7 Jacksonville), upgrading at inside linebacker with Kuechly would be a well-received pick. Again, I'm dropping boom-bust DT prospect Dontari Poe past a team that was thought be interested in him at one point this scouting season. Stanford guard David DeCastro is another sound option.

Looking back at past mock drafts from various outlets, the Chiefs are a frequent destination for Kuechly. The BC standout seems destined to be a Top 15 pick. Other teams that came up in other mock drafts were the Seattle Seahawks and Arizona Cardinals.

For all of the latest BC news and information, head over to BC Interruption. And for all your NFL draft coverage, check out Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Select Whitney Mercilus, Jerel Worthy In Latest Mock Draft

The New England Patriots have selected Whitney Mercilus and Jerel Worthy in the latest 2012 SB Nation.com NFL Mock Draft (via SB Nation).

The Patriots took Mercilus, a defensive end/linebacker out of Illinois with the 27th pick and defensive lineman Jerel Worthy from Michigan State with the 31st pick. Here's what Ryan Van Bibber said about the Mercilus pick:

New England's defense needs many things, especially a young pass rusher to go with Andre Carter. Mercilus has the dreaded "one-year wonder" label attached to him. Labels aside, the talent is there, and the Pats can use him at a couple different spots.

Mercilus had great production last season for Illinois with 57 tackles (22.5 for loss) and 16 sacks, but as Van Bibber pointed out, he only did it for one year. In limited time in 2009 and 2010, Mercilus had two sacks, total.

Here's what Van Bibber said about the Worthy pick:

If the Patriots continue to use a significant number of four-man fronts, Worthy beefs up the interior and gives them a player capable of getting pressure on a regular basis. He can also move to the outside in the three-man front. Aside from questions about his motor, the former Spartan is more complete prospect than Devon Still, who slips to the second round in this mock.

While Worthy's stamina is a knock on the lineman, his anticipation and play recognition are superior to that of some of the players being considered at the position.

For more on the Patriots head to Pats Pulpit, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.

NFL Draft 2012: Luke Kuechly Selected 13th By Arizona Cardinals In Latest Mock Draft

Former Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly was selected 13th by the Arizona Cardinals in the latest SB Nation.com 2012 NFL Mock Draft (via SB Nation).

Kuechly has consistently been called in the first 15 picks of mock drafts and this pick is no exception. Kuechly had an amazing 191 tackles last season (102 solo) during his junior year. He was only two tackles away from tying the all-time FBS record for tackles in a season despite playing in two fewer games than the record holder. Kuechly did win the Bronko Nagurski Trophy for being the best defensive player in college football.

Ryan Van Bibber said about the Cardinals' selection

Nothing against Paris Lenon and Stewart Bradley, but Arizona can do better. Drafting Kuechly gives the defense a center piece, something to tie it all together and prevent a weak middle from undoing what should be a solid secondary and a good front.

For all of the latest BC news and information, head over to BC Interruption. And for all your NFL draft coverage, check out Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Mocking The Draft Predicts Patriots Will Trade Up For Quinton Coples

The 2012 NFL draft is right around the corner, which means that mock drafts are coming out of the woodwork. The Patriots have two first-round picks, but in SB Nation's draft site, Mocking the Draft's latest mock draft, they predict the Pats to do something that New England doesn't often do: trade up.

In MTD's latest prediction, the Patriots will trade their two first-round picks to the Carolina Panthers to move up to No. 9 to select North Carolina defensive end Quinton Coples.

Quinton Coples | Defensive end | North Carolina: The Patriots would have won Super Bowls in 2007 and 2011 if their defense had a pass rush. The rushing woes have been so bad of late that devoted 3-4 disciple Bill Belichcick had to switch his base front to a 4-3 last year. With Coples falling to No. 9, this is too good for the Patriots to pass up. They give up both first round picks, a fourth rounder, and a fifth rounder. Coples can play both DE or outside linebacker, allowing Belichick to keep his hybrid 4-3 look.

Coples would be a good addition to any defense due to his ability to rush the passer, and we all know that no team can have too many good pass rushers. It would obviously help the team's struggling secondary to pressure the quarterback a little more too.

For more on the Patriots head to Pats Pulpit, and for more mock drafts, follow SB Nation Boston's StoryStream.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: Mel Kiper Projects Patriots To Select Shea McClellin, Derek Wolfe In First Round

In his latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Mel Kiper projects that the New England Patriots will use both of their first round picks to address their defensive front seven.

Kiper picked the Patriots to use the 27th pick to choose Shea McClellin, an outside linebacker, from Boise State.

Here's what Kiper had to say about McClellin:

A player who has moved up boards during the draft process, he played with a hand on the ground at Boise State, but has enough athleticism and the smarts to transition to standing up on the edge in this type of a system. The Patriots have to work on the front seven in the draft, and McClellin is the type of heady player Bill Belichick can work with. (via ESPN)

The Patriots' other pick in the first round, 31st, would be used on Derek Wolfe, a defensive lineman from Cincinnati. Kiper feels that Wolfe is best suited in a 3-4 system.

Will fit best as a 3-4 DE, where he can use his size (6-5, 295) to become a disruptive pass-rusher. Not considered explosive in terms of foot speed, he plays with great leverage and can disrupt pockets by driving linemen back, demanding extra help. Another good fit for the Patriots as they add pieces up front.

As for the second round, Kiper sees the Patriots looking to address the secondary and offensive line. Kiper has the Pats taking speedy UCF cornerback Josh Robinson with the 48th pick. With the 62nd selection, Kiper has New England filling what he determines as a need on the offensive line with guard, Amini Silatolu from Midwestern State (Division II).

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Select Chandler Jones, Kendall Reyes

In Sports Illustrated's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Don Banks projects -- like so many mock drafters have before him -- that the New England Patriots will use both their first round picks to shore up their defense.

Banks has the Patriots selecting former Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones with with 27th pick and former UConn defensive tackle Kendall Reyes with the 31st pick.

Both players would be prized by the Patriots for their versatility and both play on the defensive line, where the Patriots could use some additional depth and play-making ability. Jones would be a surprise in the first round -- the National Football Post ranks him No. 141 on its NFL Draft Big Board -- but the Patriots will surely be looking for pieces to improve their defense.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Go Defensive

In SB Nation's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Van Bibber projects that the New England Patriots use their two first round picks to select Whitney Mercilus, a defensive end from Illinois, and Janoris Jenkins, a cornerback from North Alabama.

27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans), Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

As much as we talk about the Patriots' needs in the secondary, they also need another pass rusher to pair with Andre Carter. They needed another pass rusher even before they lost free agent Mark Anderson. Mercilus will be a welcome addition, and a versatile one that fits in any number of the Patriots' defensive looks.

31. New England, Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

Jenkins' revelations at the Combine scared off a few teams. He was at least forthcoming about his off-field issues and intention to put the past behind him. New England could certainly use his talent and coverage ability in their secondary.

Jenkins began his college career at Florida, but was dismissed from the team after a series of arrests.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: New England Patriots Select Devon Still, DT, Penn State

In Mocking The Draft's latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, Brad Wells predicts that the New England Patriots will ship away one of their first-round picks and use the other to select Devon Still, a 6-foot-5, 310-pound defensive tackle from Penn State.

27. New England Patriots

Devon Still | Defensive tackle | Penn State: The annoyingly patient Patriots simply sit and wait while everyone else trades for need players. At pick 27, Devon Still falls into their lap, a defensive tackle for a team that really needs better interior line play to compliment Vince Wilfork. Remember, the Pats play more of a 4-3 base defense now, and Still offers Bill Belichick more options along his front.

New England often trades its draft choices for future value, and Still would fit a need if he falls that far in the first round. The Penn State product is No. 20 on National Football Post's 2012 NFL Draft Big Board, so there's a chance he isn't around by the time the Patriots are on the clock.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.

NFL Draft 2012, Luke Kuechly: BC Linebacker Hovers Near Top 10 In Latest Todd McShay Mock

The month of March is coming to a close, which means the NFL draft truly is around the corner. One person excited for that day to come is Boston College linebacker Luke Kuechly, whose steady rise towards the top of team's draft boards has continued.

Todd McShay - one of ESPN's lead draft analysts - has released his latest mock draft, this time including two rounds ofprojections. According to McShay, Kuechly won't have to wait long to hear his name called, as he believes the Kansas City Chiefs - who hold the 11th pick - will snag the standout inside linebacker.

The Chiefs finished 2011 at 7-9 and have addressed many of their most pressing needs via free agency. Kuechly would likely assume the starting role of Jovan Belcher, a former Maine star who was recently re-signed by the team.

For all of the latest BC news and information, head over to BC Interruption. And for all your NFL draft coverage, check out Mocking The Draft.

Todd McShay Two-Round Mock Draft: Patriots Get Defensive

ESPN's Todd McShay has released his latest mock draft, this time including two rounds of projections. Unsurprisingly, McShay has the New England Patriots looking defensive with three of their four picks, including a pair of defensive linemen in the first round.

McShay likes the Patriots to take Chandler Jones from Syracuse at pick 27 and Kendall Reyes of UConn at 31. His analysis on each:

Jones: Jones is one of the most underrated prospects in the entire 2012 class and just the kind of versatile defender Bill Belichick likes. Jones is long and athletic and can play end in an odd or even front, maybe even some outside linebacker in 3-4 looks.

Reyes: Reyes is a versatile talent who hasn't yet played to his potential, but he is a smart player who could thrive in this scheme and with this organization.

In the second round, McShay has the Patriots taking Wisconsin center Peter Konz at pick 48 (his top ranked player at the position), and LSU safety Brandon Taylor at pick 62.

The Patriots defense ranked 31st overall in 2011, allowing 6,577 yards, including 4,703 through the air, the second worst total in NFL history.

The draft kicks off on Thursday, April 26.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Select Mark Barron And Nick Perry

In the latest SB Nation NFL mock draft, Ryan Van Bibber has the New England Patriots selecting strong safety Mark Barron and outside linebacker Nick Perry with their two first round picks.

Barron would be a great fit in respect to both need and value. Many expect Barron to be taken by the Jets, but if he slides by them and reached New England he would probably be taken.

The other thing that needs to be considered is how incredibly bad the draft is this year for safeties. If Barron was there and the Patriots didn't snatch him up, they're not going to get a quality man at that spot.

With the second first-round pick, Van Bibber has Nick Perry going off the board. Perry showed up in a big way at USC last year and most people agree he's a late first or early second round pick. Perry would instantly upgrade the defense and replace Mark Anderson who left for Buffalo.

New England will have some time to see how the draft board falls with their picks both late in the first round at 27th and 31st overall.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out our blog Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the news, notes and updates.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Mock Dont'a Hightower, Jerel Worthy

The New England Patriots are expected to focus on the defensive side of the ball during the 2012 NFL Draft, looking to improve a unit that didn't always carry its weight during 2011.

Sports Illustrated's Don Banks became the latest NFL analyst to predict that New England would use both its first-round picks on defensive players, choosing the Patriots to select Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower and Michigan State defensive tackle Jerel Worthy in his latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft.

27. LB Dont'a Hightower Alabama Jr. 6-4 269

(From New Orleans). Hightower is a versatile and instinctive player who seems ready-made for the New England defense, and we know Bill Belichick and Nick Saban look for the same kind of players and trust each other's judgment.

31. DT Jerel Worthy Michigan State Jr. 6-3 310

With the Patriots taking Alabama inside linebacker Dont'a Hightower at No. 27, they can fill another front-seven need with Worthy, one of the many defensive tackles with first-round grades. Worthy could play in the Patriots' D-line rotation initially and perhaps develop into Vince Wilfork's successor down the road a bit.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and notes.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Michael Brockers and Whitney Mercilus Mocked To New England Patriots

in the latest SB Nation NFL Mock Draft, Ryan Van Bibber has defensive end Michael Brockers from LSU and linebacker Whitney Mercilus of Illinois going to the New England Patriots in the first round.

It's clear Van Bibber feels the wide receivers aren't good enough at this point to draft a young replacement for Deion Branch. It's also a solid plan of attack to refortify the defense, which needs a serious dose of youthful ability.

Brockers might be a little bit of a pipe dream at the 27th slot, but it's possible with the way draft stocks rise and fall this time of year. Some have him going off the board in the top ten and others, like Van Bibber, see him falling a long way.

Mercilus is a boom or bust type pick that Belichick could turn into a star. The Illinois product only had one really good season in college, but shows the type of ability that could just classify him as a late bloomer.

For more on the Patriots, be sure to check out Pats Pulpit and SB Nation Boston for all the latest news and notes.

NFL Draft 2012, Luke Kuechly: ESPN Mocks Link BC Linebacker To Kansas City, Seattle

After answering questions about his athleticism at the Combine, BC linebacker Luke Kuechly continues his steady climb up the NFL draft boards.

Mel Kiper Jr., and Todd McShay - ESPN's lead draft analysts - have released their third mock drafts of the pre-draft season, and each has Kuechly pegged as a top 12 pick.

Kiper likes Kuechly to end up with the Kansas City Chiefs at number 11: Kuechly came to Indy with concerns about his size. But he weighed in at over 240 pounds, easing some of those concerns, and then shined in workouts, proving the added bulk won't slow him down; a classic case where a guy answers the big questions and solidifies his stock. Romeo Crennel needs linebackers with great instincts who can be physical in the run game, make stops and also get into the backfield when asked. Kuechly is simply a machine, a prototype for what you want in an interior linebacker. I can see the Chiefs looking for a nose tackle, so if Poe is around, that pick makes sense as well.

McShay sees Kuechly sliding just one slot lower, to the Seattle Seahawks: Linebacker is among the Seahawks' top needs, and Kuechly would immediately improve Seattle's linebacker corps with his instincts, consistency, production and leadership.

For all of the latest BC news and information, head over to BC Interruption. And for all your NFL draft coverage, check out Mocking The Draft.

NFL Combine 2012: Schedule And Preview

The 2012 NFL Combine officially begins on Wednesday, Feb. 22, when the first wave of athletes is scheduled to arrive in Indianapolis for a week in front of NFL evaluators.

The combine follows a staggered schedule which separates each position into its own daily schedule. Players stay in Indianapolis for four days each, undergoing interviews, conditioning tests, mental examinations and on-field workouts with their position as professional scouts and front office employees observe.

[FULL NFL COMBINE SCHEDULE HERE]

Kickers, punters, offensive linemen and tight ends arrive on Wednesday to begin the four-day cycle of combine events. Quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers are due in Indianapolis on Thursday. Defensive linemen and linebackers are scheduled to start on Friday, and cornerbacks are last but not least, beginning on Saturday.

Each position begins Day 1 on the day of arrival in Indianapolis. The four-day schedule follows.

Day 1:

Travel to Indianapolis, registration, hospital pre-exam and X-rays, orientation, interviews

Day 2:

Measurements, medical examinations, media, psychological testing, interviews

Day 3:

NFLPA Meeting, psychological testing, interviews

Day 4:

Workout (timing, stations, skill drills), departure from Indianapolis

For all your Patriots news and notes, head to Pats Pulpit, and for all the latest 2012 NFL Draft coverage, check out Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Mark Barron, Whitney Mercilus Projected To Patriots In Latest SB Nation Mock

The Patriots always seem to have an abundance of draft picks, and this year is no different.

In the latest SB Nation NFL mock draft, the Patriots have been slated to select strong safety Mark Barron out of Alabama and Whitney Mercilus, an outside linebacker from Illinois.

Both of these picks would make a ton of sense. No team in the NFL needs more help in it's secondary than New England. It was one bad day after the next for the Patriots defense, and it was ultimately their undoing in the Super Bowl.

Barron can come right in and make an impact. He learned under Nick Saban and his complex schemes in the toughest conference around. Barron was a star among many on the Alabama defense and could very well be a force at the next level.

Mercilus would help bolster a pass-rush that was lacking at times. Andre Carter and Mark Anderson showed they could get to the quarterback, but neither has done it consistently over their careers. Mercilus would bring a youthful presence alongside Jerod Mayo as well.

The one thing that worries NFL men about Mercilus is his lack of production throughout his college career. However, when you amass 16 sacks in one year like Mercilus did in 2011, it's hard not to take notice.

The Pats will almost certainly address the defensive side of the ball early and often in the draft unless a stud receiver is available. Both Barron and Mercilus would be fine additions.

NFL Draft 2012, Luke Kuechly: NFL Network's Mike Mayock Praises Kuechly

Mike Mayock of the NFL Network is regarded as one of the brightest and most reliable NFL draft experts on the scene today, and on Wednesday he held a conference call for nearly two hours with reporters to field questions about the upcoming April draft.

One of the players that continues to generate interest, and a player that Mayock knows well, is linebacker Luke Kuechly of Boston College. Mayock, an alum of Boston College himself, had glowing words about Kuechly, calling him the best inside linebacker prospect in the draft, and cited his phenomenal production. Further, Mayock suggested that Kuechly is a better athlete than most believe him to be.

As for where Kuechly may end up, the consensus is that he'll be picked in the top half of the first round. One team in desperate need of linebacking help is the Eagles, and Mayock loves the fit for Kuechly in Philly. "If I'm the Eagles, and Kuechly is there, that's a slam dunk for me," Mayock said. "Because I know what I'm getting and I'm plugging a huge hole."

And just what can fans of whichever franchise drafts Kuechly expect from him at the next level? Mayock likened him to a more athletic version of the Cowboys' Sean Lee, a former second round pick who had 105 tackles and four interceptions in 2011.

Kuechly will have an opportunity to improve his draft stock when the NFL Combine begins on Feb. 22nd in Indianapolis.

For Mocking The Draft's latest first round projection, click here.

Mel Kiper 2012 NFL Mock Draft Version 2.0: New England Patriots Go Defensive With Vinny Curry, Kendall Reyes

Defense, defense, defense. The New England Patriots have survived -- thrived, even -- without a top defense the last few seasons, but upgrading that side of the football should be New England's point of emphasis in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Mel Kiper agrees. In his latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, the ESPN analyst has the New England Patriots selecting outside linebacker Vinny Curry from Marshall with the No. 27 pick and defensive tackle Kendall Reyes with the No. 31 pick.

Vinny Curry, OLB, Marshall

Curry is a really good pass-rusher for a team that needs to find some help in that area. I'm not sure he's the best candidate to play OLB in a 3-4, but Bill Belichick can scheme around his personnel as well as anybody, and if he loves a pass-rusher, he'll find a way to make it work. Curry has violent hands and can really get a tackle off-balance. He can also swim to the inside. The Patriots need to add talent to the front seven, and Curry is a start.

Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut

We've seen the value of Vince Wilfork, and while Reyes isn't the size of a city block, he certainly has some of the traits of a guy who can help a defense similarly. When he gets good leverage (which he usually does), Reyes is really strong and will get offensive linemen up off their feet as he pushes them into the backfield. He's not going to shed blocks as a brilliant pass-rusher would, but Reyes can develop into the guy who makes everybody else a better pass-rusher because he demands so much blocking help.

For all your Patriots news and notes, head to Pats Pulpit, and for all the latest 2012 NFL Draft coverage, check out Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: Kendall Reyes Headlines UConn Pro Day

Three Connecticut Huskies football players will audition for pro scouts on March 28, when the school holds its NFL Pro Day.

Defensive lineman Kendall Reyes headlines the UConn group which will run drills in front of various NFL scouts and front office decision-makers; the NFL announced on Monday that he will be joined by wide receiver Kashif Moore and kicker Dave Teggart.

Ranked No. 80 among Mocking The Draft's Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects, Reyes impressed scouts during the week of practices leading up to the Senior Bowl. According to multiple reports from the practices, Reyes was one of the week's biggest winners. CBS Sports' Rob Rang wrote that Reyes took "full advantage" of his opportunity, getting the best of some of the nation's top offensive line prospects.

For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft. If you would like to follow Connecticut Huskies football, visit our blog The UConn Blog.

NFL Draft 2012: Patriots To Address Defensive Needs In First Round?

The New England Patriots missed out on the bliss of a Super Bowl victory on Sunday, and the city of Boston has been mired in a defeating hangover since. One tried and true remedy for the pain of defeat is a renewed focus on the forthcoming 2012 NFL draft.

The Patriots hold two picks in the first round (27th and 31st) and two in the second, which should equate to the opportunity to address multiple needs on either side of the football. On Sunday, it was the Patriots defense that stepped up against the Giants, but it's a flawed unit with limitations rushing the passer and defending in the secondary.

WalterFootball.com has recently released it's post-Super Bowl mock draft, and believes the Patriots will address those needs head on by taking Whitney Mercilus of Illinois and Alfonzo Dennard of Nebraska with their top two picks.

Mercilus projects as a defensive end or outside linebacker depending on the scheme, and led the nation in sacks in 2011 with 16. Dennard, meanwhile, is a highly-regarded cornerback who would add talent and depth to a thin secondary.

For all your Patriots news and notes, head to Pats Pulpit, and for all the latest 2012 NFL Draft coverage, check out Mocking the Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: New England Patriots Could Look For Defensive Help

With the 2011-12 season behind the New England Patriots culminating with a disappointing ending, it's time to glance forward towards free agency and the draft.

The combine is only a few weeks away and there are a few defensive players that Bill Belichick might be taking a very long look at.

It's been well documented that New England struggled mightily against the pass, ranking 31st in passing yards allowed. One way to fix that issue is obvious: draft a cornerback. However, the other way is improve the pass rush which will subsequently make the corners better.

Quinton Coples has the potential to be that type of disruptive force on the line. Coples likely won't fall all the way to 27th (the Pats first pick), but then again the draft is a strange animal. Belichick and co. have the picks to move up if they want which just adds another dimension.

Chandler Jones might be a better fit however. The defensive end doesn't as high of a ceiling according to most experts, but he could be around and not cost the Patriots a bevy of picks. Jones could be just what the doctor ordered for this defensive unit that's desperate to improve.

One great selection could put New England back on top in 2012. It'll be fascinating see who Belichick chooses.

For more Patriots news and notes, be sure to check out SB Nation Boston and Pats Pulpit.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Select Chandler Jones And Brandon Thompson

ESPN's Todd McShay has released his latest version of his 2012 NFL Mock Draft and projects the New England Patriots will select Chandler Jones, the defensive end from Syracuse, and Brandon Thompson, the defensive tackle from Clemson with the 27th and 32nd picks, respectively.

The Patriots have two first-round picks, and while coach Bill Belichick's track record indicates he'll trade one of them, we have to project both to the Patriots until we know otherwise. Jones is an under-the-radar pass-rusher with the frame (6-5, 247) Bill Belichick likes in his DE/OLB hybrids, and he's a gifted athlete who bends the edge naturally. He's the brother of Ravens DL Arthur Jones and MMA sensation Jon Jones.

Filling a need at wide receiver would be a reach here, so Thompson becomes attractive. His motor runs hot and cold and he played much better in 2010, but Thompson can be overpowering against the run and flashes the ability to collapse the pocket as a pass-rusher. Other interior DLs who could be on the radar: Jerel Worthy (Michigan State), Fletcher Cox (Mississippi State), Devon Still (Penn State) and Dontari Poe (Memphis).

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: New England Patriots Could Look At Wide Receiver

With the Patriots getting ready for the Super Bowl, most thoughts aren't geared toward April and the coming NFL draft. However, even the AFC champions have holes and so it'll be interesting to see how Bill Belichick decided to address them.

A wide receiver could be a strong option according to Steve Muench of ESPN.com. Muench does a nice job of pointing out New England's failings in the last decade when drafting at that position. The Patriots really could use a lot of help on the defensive side of the ball, but it would be an intriguing move to give Tom Brady more firepower.

If Michael Floyd fell all the way to New England, it would be a tough choice. Floyd has a lot of off the field issues and yet possesses loads of ability. He's expected to go a little earlier in the first round, but then again so was Dez Bryant who fell to 25th in 2010.

Of course, as Muench mentions, the Patriots could take a speedster in the middle rounds also. It's a draft that's pretty deep, which bodes well for Tom Kraft's team considering where they will be picking.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Select Mark Barron, Whitney Mercilus In Latest Projection

In the latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft from Wes Bunting at National Football Post, the New England Patriots selected Alabama safety Mark Barron and Illinois defensive end Whitney Mercilus (via National Football Post).

Here is what Bunting had to say about the selections:

27. New England Patriots: Alabama SS Mark Barron
New England has had to piece together their secondary this year, but in terms of talent they could certainly use an upgrade at a number of spots. Barron is a smart, instinctive safety with good ball skills, can play in the box and be effective bumping/running with tight ends underneath.

32. New England Patriots: Illinois DE Whitney Mercilus
Age is creeping up on the Patriots at the defensive end position and Mercilus has the type of measurables to really move up draft boards with a solid post-season.

Mocking The Draft ranks Barron No. 26 and Mercilus No. 32 in their Top 100 Draft Prospects.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Select Mark Barron, Jerel Worthy In Latest Projection

SB Nation's latest 2012 NFL mock draft predicts the New England Patriots will use their two first-round selections to improve a defense that occasionally sprouted leaks this season.

27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans), Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Patriots are vying for the Super Bowl in spite of their secondary, and it could prove to be their undoing against a very good group of New York receivers. They could use help at cornerback, but the availability of Mark Barron here makes this pick easy for a team using Sterling Moore at safety in the playoffs. Barron's tackling ability alone is an upgrade for the Patriots' defense.

31. New England Patriots, Jerel Worthy, DE, Michigan State

Vince Wilfork's inspired play might be the least talked about ingredient in the Patriots' Super Bowl run but they still need to add some youth and strength along their defensive front. Worthy is the perfect combination of a stout run stopper and a big man, 320 pounds, who has the explosiveness to get to the passer.

Mocking The Draft ranks Barron No. 26 among its Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects, citing his ability to lay big hits despite his lack of elite athleticism for the position. Worthy is ranked No. 49 on the basis of his good size, quick first step and versatility.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: SI.com's Don Banks Predicts Patriots Will Select Michael Brockers, Dont'a Hightower

SI.com's Inside The NFL columnist Don Bank released his latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft Saturday, and he predicts that the New England Patriots will select LSU defensive tackle Michael Brockers with the No. 27-overall pick and then Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower with the 32nd pick. The Patriots, who will face the New York Giants in the 2012 Super Bowl, Feb. 5, have two picks in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.

Here's what Banks says about Brockers:

"The Patriots need more talent in their defensive front seven, and they love interchangeable players who can play anywhere on the defensive line," says Banks. "Brockers is capable of penetrating the backfield and creating some havoc against both the pass and the run."

Banks' breakdown of Hightower:

"Again, the Patriots need more playmakers in their defensive front seven, and we know Bill Belichick tends to trust players who have been coached by either Nick Saban or Urban Meyer," says Banks.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 Senior Bowl: North Defeats South 23-13

The 2012 Senior Bowl has ended with the North All Stars defeating the South All Stars by a final score of 23-13. The 63rd annual game was played at Ladd Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Alabama – the site for the Senior Bowl every season.

Only three total touchdowns were scored in the contest. Former Wisconsin quarterback, Russell Wilson, connected with Marvin Jones from Cal for the game's first touchdown. Kirk Cousins, from Michigan State, connected with Gerrell Robinson from Arizona State for a 40 yard touchdown in the third. And Nick Foles, from Arizona, connected with AU teammate, Juron Criner for a 20 yard score in the fourth quarter for the South's only TD. Criner finished with six catches for 77 yards and the touchdown.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 Senior Bowl: Kickoff Time, TV Schedule And More

The 2012 Senior Bowl won't be played until Saturday afternoon at 3 p.m. in Mobile, Alabama (NFL Network), but Connecticut Huskies defensive lineman Kendall Reyes has already made his week in front of NFL personnel a success.

CBS Sports reports that Reyes has taken "full advantage" to prove himself in front of the hordes of NFL talent evaluators who flock to observe the Senior Bowl practices.

Reyes, who measured in just a shade under 6-4 and 300 pounds lined up at the three-technnique and even was split out as a five-technique defensive end. His burst off the snap and quick hands made him a tough draw for even the most athletic and experienced of the North offensive linemen. Wisconsin's Kevin Zeitler, arguably the nation's top pure guard among seniors, struggled handling Reyes one on one during drills and during the scrimmages throughout practice, as well.

Reyes is rated the No. 80 prospect in Mocking The Draft's Top 100 NFL Draft Prospects, but his stock has climbed this week. The Senior Bowl festivities conclude Saturday afternoon, when the North team meets the South team at Ladd Peebles Stadium.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 Senior Bowl: Game Preview And History

The 2012 Senior Bowl is scheduled for Saturday, continuing the long-standing all-star exhibition that has been played annually since 1950 and held in Mobile, Alabama since 1951.

After attracting some of the best football talent in the nation for 62 consecutive editions -- 63 come Saturday -- the Senior Bowl Hall of Fame includes some of football's brightest names. Paul "Bear" Bryant, Tom Landry, Joe Greene, Walter Payton, Bo Jackson and Dan Marino are among the players inducted into the game's Hall of Fame.

As is customary, the players selected to participate in this year's Senior Bowl have competed in practices all week, coached by NFL coaching staffs and scouted by hundreds of NFL talent evaluators. The game kicks off Saturday at 3 p.m.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: Mel Kiper Re-Drafts 2006

It's safe to say the New England Patriots have other things on their mind these days, but members of the Patriots personnel staff are already bearing down in preparation for the 2012 NFL draft. The Patriots have two first round choices, their's plus New Orleans', and will spend time after Super Bowl XLVI deciding which areas of their roster to address (the secondary seems to be a logical choice).

But instead of looking forward, let's take a look back, courtesy of Mel Kiper's recent article in which he re-drafted the 2006 first round. The Patriots held the 21st pick, and used it on the talented-but-immature RB Laurence Maroney out of Minnesota. Maroney was eventually traded along with a 2011 sixth round pick to Denver in 2010 in exchange for a 2011 fourth round draft pick.

In Kiper's redo, he posits that the Patriots would select CB Antonio Cromartie, currently of the Jets. Cromartie was drafted out of Florida State by the Chargers with the 19th pick, and Kiper cites his production as a point of appeal.

Maroney, unsurprisingly, did not crack the list of Kiper's 32 selections, and he is now out of the league.

For all of your NFL Draft coverage, head over to Mocking The Draft. For all of your Patriots news and notes, heading over to Pats Pulpit.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Melvin Ingram, Jared Crick Projected To New England Patriots

The New England Patriots currently have more pressing issues on their mind than the NFL Draft -- some playoff game called the "Super Bowl" or something like that.

But the NFL Draft will ultimately come and the Patriots will approach it in hopes of upgrading their already-Super team.

In its latest 2012 NFL Mock Draft, SB Nation has New England selecting South Carolina defensive end/outside linebacker Melvin Ingram and Nebraska defensive end Jared Crick.

27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans), Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina

Ingram is a fast rising talent that will get picked in the first round because he can rush the passer. Nevermind the yak yak about his size being an odd fit for a 3-4 OLB. New England thrives because they value good football players over dogma.

32. New England Patriots, Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska

The Pats' defense surprised shocked the world in their win over the Ravens. They still need to get younger and tougher on the line. Crick bolsters their defensive front, giving it some power to stop the run and occupy blockers while the pass rushers do their thing.

Ingram is rated No. 24 in the National Football Post's NFL Draft Big Board, and Crick is rated No. 38.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: Senior Bowl Rosters Include Donnie Fletcher, Emil Igwenagu, Kendall Reyes

Three players from New England will represent their schools in the Senior Bowl, a college football All-Star Game that takes place on Jan. 28 at 3 p.m in Ladd-Peebles Stadium, Mobile, Alabama.

Boston College Eagles defensive back Donnie Fletcher, Massachusetts Minutemen tight end Emil Igwenagu and Connecticut Huskies defensive lineman Kendall Reyes will all compete for the North team.

The North and South teams will each be coached by an entire NFL coaching staff, and more than 800 NFL general managers, head coaches, assistant coaches, scouts and other front office personnel are expected to attend the practices and/or game.

Fletcher, a 6-1, 195-pound cornerback, contributed 35 tackles and two interceptions for Boston College.

Igwenagu, a 6-2, 245-pound tight end, notched 38 catches for 375 yards and three touchdowns for UMass.

Reyes, a 6-4, 295-pound defensive tackle, had 46 tackles, including 14.5 tackles for loss, and 4.5 sacks.

For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

NFL Draft 2012, Luke Kuechly: Former Boston College Eagle Looking Like A First Round Lock

Boston College junior LB Luke Kuechly, who recently declared his intentions to forgo his senior season and enter the NFL draft, is already gaining steam as a first round pick.

Kuechly finished his decorated Eagles career with an ACC-record 532 tackles, and captured multiple major defensive awards this past season, including the Butkus, Lombardi and Bronco Nagurski.

Mocking The Draft has Kuechly heading to the Philadelphia Eagles with the 15^th overall pick in the draft, describing him as a "natural fit."

ESPN’s Mel Kiper recently released his initial Mock Draft for 2012, and he too pinned Kuechly as an ideal fit for the Philadelphia Eagles with the 15^th overall pick. The Eagles were razor thin up the middle of their defense this year, and relinquished nearly four and a half yards per carry on the ground.

ESPN’s Todd McShay, the director of college football scouting for Scouts Inc., has Kuechly ranked as the 10^th best overall prospect and the top rated inside linebacker.

Inside linebacker has been a difficult position for NFL teams to find in the first round of late, with only three being selected in the previous three drafts combined.

For more NFL Draft information, and a prospect ranking list, click here.

Kuechly is training at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL leading up to the draft.

Mel Kiper 2012 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: New England Patriots Select Michael Brockers, Andre Branch

It's widely believed that the New England Patriots will use the 2012 NFL Draft to beef up their defense, as long as Bill Belichick doesn't trade away all New England's selections in his on-going quest to horde every single pick in the 2031 Draft.

In the Mel Kiper 2012 NFL Mock Draft 1.0, Kiper predicts that the Patriots will select Michael Brockers, a defensive lineman from LSU, and Andre Branch, a linebacker from Clemson.

27. Michael Brockers, DL, LSU The Patriots have a pair of picks in the first round, and my guess is they'll look to get younger on the defensive line and work to add some pieces to a pass rush. That was something they really didn't address in last year's draft, but as creative and resourceful as they are, it might be time. Brockers could end up a lot higher than this when the evaluation process is over because his reputation is growing. I list him simply as a defensive lineman because the Pats could use him in a couple of different ways up front in that scheme. What he can do is add explosiveness on the interior -- he's a pentrator with the ability to dominate if left to a single blocker, which frees people up.

32. Andre Branch, LB, Clemson A defensive end at the college level, Branch would convert to outside linebacker and add some immediate help to the New England pass rush. He racked up 10.5 sacks this past season and has a 6-foot-5, 260-pound frame, a good physical fit for the transition. Branch also has the athleticism to be more than a pure pass-rusher, as he should be able to develop into a well-rounded OLB under Bill Belichick.

Mocking The Draft lists Branch No. 37 on the 2012 NFL Draft Overall Rankings, cautioning that his awareness still needs to catch up to his physical talent.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

NFL Draft 2012: The New England Patriots Need A Wide Receiver

The New England Patriots are 13-3 and heading to the AFC Championship game against the Baltimore Ravens. They're the number one seed in the conference and look for all intents and purposes like the favorite to at least get to the Super Bowl if not win it. Yet, the Patriots have legitimate holes on both sides of the ball.

New England doesn't have a good outside wide receiver. Deion Branch is serviceable but hardly someone you would call prolific. Wes Welker is a great slot man that provides a security blanket when Tom Brady needs one.Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez are quite possibly the best two tight end set of all-time.

However, all these weapons would be even more dangerous with a vertical threat to take the top off of defenses.

While elite play-makers such as Justin Blackmon of Oklahoma State and Michael Floyd of Notre Dame will be off the board by New England's selection, other options are still out there.

B.J Cunningham and A.J. Jenkins have looked really good at Shrine week according to Steve Muench and Kevin Weidl of ESPN. While neither is projected to be a first round pick they both are intriguing options, especially considering the Patriots love to trade back in the draft.

One name to keep in mind is Alshon Jeffery of South Carolina. The Gamecock is a projected late first round pick and is a big bodied (6' 4'', 232) speedster. Jeffery is the type of receiver who could really open up space underneath for the rest of Brady's bunch.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Select Stephon Gilmore Of South Carolina No. 32

The New England Patriots march to their fourth Super Bowl title is still ongoing, however, that didn't stop the fellas at SB Nation to take the liberty to project who the Pats are going to take in the 2012 NFL Draft, as on Tuesday Ryan Van Bibber released his new NFL Mock Draft.

And with the the 32nd pick -- yeap, that's right Foxborough, MA is about to become title town once again! -- in the 2012 NFL Draft the New England Patriots select: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina Gamecocks.

"The Patriots' defense is not where they would like it be," says Van Bibber, "with needs in both the front and the back of the unit. The can't pass up Gilmore with this pick, which will probably be traded as well. If not, Gilmore could help a defense that allowed an average of 300 yards per game in 2011. Gilmore will be attractive here because he's a smart player who understands how the game works and his place in it.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, check out the SB Nation blog Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Projected To Select Melvin Ingram, Jayron Hosley

Defense, defense, defense. Stopping opponents hasn't been the way the New England Patriots have won the past few seasons, but it's the most glaring weakness the team needs to address in the 2012 NFL Draft.

Sports Illustrated's Andrew Perloff wrote a 2012 NFL Mock Draft during which he projected that the Patriots would make two first-round picks designed to fill two of the team's biggest holes -- pass-rushing and secondary play.

28. New England Patriots (From New Orleans Saints) -- Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

The Patriots are never predictable, but you have to figure they'll go pretty heavy on defense in this draft. They've seemed hesitant to take a pass-rusher, but they need to improve in that area. Scouts are waiting to see how Ingram runs to see where he'll be slotted. New England could also look at Clemson DE Andre Branch here.

31. New England Patriots -- Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech

Hosley had nine interceptions in 2010, but was banged up last season and took a step back. The Pats have been using converted offensive players in their secondary; they need bodies.

Ingram had 10 sacks, 13 tackles for loss and 48 tackles during his senior season at South Carolina. He also had one of the most dominant performances of the season during a 16-13 loss against Auburn, racking up 11 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks on a single Saturday.

Hosley contributed three interceptions during his junior season at Virginia Tech, announcing after the Sugar Bowl that he would forego his senior season.

For more New England Patriots coverage, visit our team page or our blog Pats Pulpit.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Projected To Select Jerel Worthy, Bruce Irvin

New England is expected to use the 2012 NFL Draft to upgrade its defense.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: Jerel Worthy, Brandon Jenkins To Patriots; Luke Kuechly To Eagles

The first 2012 NFL Mock Draft from SB Nation has been released, with Michigan St. Spartans defensive tackle Jerel Worthy and Florida State Seminoles defensive end Brandon Jenkins projected to the New England Patriots at No. 30 and No. 31 overall, respectively, and Luke Kuechly, a junior linebacker from the Boston College Eagles, being projected to the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 15 overall in the first round.

Kuechly has played at BC for three seasons, recording a school and ACC-record 532 tackles. Kuechly led the nation in tackles with 191 (102 solo) last season and was named the recipient of the Bronko Nagurski Award and the Lombardi Trophy, among other honors.

15. Philadelphia Eagles, Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

Blame Wide 9 from outer space, blame the high cost of free agent chemistry, blame the converted offensive line coach turned defensive coordinator, all of it deserves some scorn. The Eagles still need some help at linebacker, and Kuechly is the kind of middle linebacker that potential future defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo had in St. Louis with James Laurinaitis.

Worth totaled 25 tackles, 3.5 sacks and had seven tackles for a loss this season at Michigan State, and the junior now has 102 career tackles, 12 sacks and 20 tackles for a loss in his three seasons with the Spartans.

30. New England Patriots (from New Orleans), Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State

You can almost guarantee that this pick, and probably the next one, will be traded before the shooting stops on the first night of the draft. For the sake of mocking, let's put Worthy here because he gives the Pats a much needed shot of youth along their defensive line.

Jenkins had 41 tackles and eight sacks this season for Florida State. In addition, Jenkins recorded 12 tackles for a loss and has 107 career tackles, 22 sacks, 30 tackles for a loss and one forced fumble in three seasons with the Seminoles.

31. New England Patriots, Brandon Jenkins, OLB, Florida State

Andre Carter is currently the Patriots' best pass rusher. He's 32 and stuck on the injured reserve list. They need to add another player who can get the quarterback. Jenkins puts his head down and plays football, a trait Bill Belichick loves.

Without surprise, Stanford Cardinal quarterback Andrew Luck is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Indianapolis Colts. Matt Kalil, an offensive tackles from the USC Trojans, is projected to be the No. 2 overall pick by the St. Louis Rams. Morris Claiborne, a cornerback from the LSU Tigers, is projected to the Minnesota Vikings at No. 3 overall while Baylor quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III is pegged at No. 4 overall to the Cleveland Browns.

For more 2012 NFL Draft coverage, visit SB Nation. Also, visit our New England Patriots page and Boston College Football page, as well as our team blogs, Pats Pulpit and BC Interruption.

NFL Mock Draft 2012: BC's Luke Kuechly Projected To Philadelphia Eagles

Let the mock draft madness begin! Luke Kuechly, a junior linebacker from Boston College, is projected to be the No. 15 overall pick of the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2012 NFL Draft. Kuechly led the nation with 191 tackles (102 solo) in 2011.