2012 NFL Draft Biggest Steals And Reaches: Tavon Wilson A Reach For Patriots

If you were watching the 2012 NFL Draft on Friday night and found yourself asking a friend, "Who the heck is Tavon Wilson?" -- you weren't alone.

The New England Patriots' second-round draft choice out of Illinois was not invited to the NFL Combine and was not on many teams' draft boards. Before the Patriots chose the cornerback/safety with the 48th pick, he was projected to go undrafted by most analysts.

According to Sports Illustrated's Tony Pauline, Wilson was one of the 2012 NFL Draft's biggest reaches.

Few teams, if any, considered Wilson draftable, never mind assigning him a second-round grade. Wilson is a nice prospect, yet does not stand out in any single area.

Bill Belichick does not care for pre-draft projections and does not care that he will look quite stupid if Wilson provides little help during the upcoming season. He likes Wilson and that was enough for the Patriots.

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

2013 NFL Mock Draft: New England Patriots Linked To Jordan Poyer

The 2012 NFL Draft is old news folks. Hold onto your hats, because here comes the do-you-believe-it 2013 NFL Mock Draft done by SB Nation's very own Ryan Van Bibber.

In this piece, Van Bibber has the New England Patriots selecting 29th overall and taking Jordan Poyer.

Poyer is a very talented cornerback out of Oregon State and makes sense on many levels.

New England has done quite a bit in this offseason to address multiple needs on the defensive side of the ball. However, one area that wasn't truly taken care of was corner. Don't forget, wide receiver Julian Edelman was taking snaps in the Super Bowl as a corner. That's the true definition of needing massive help.

Poyer can upgrade that area with his combination of speed and athleticism. The only saving grace for the Patriots this year is playing in a division with two teams that can't throw the football to save their lives in Miami and New York.

Heck, the Jets have two starting quarterbacks and still can't complete a pass.

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

2012 NFL Draft Grades: The New England Patriots Get An 'A' From SB Nation

With all the experts handing out draft grades now that the 2012 NFL Draft has come to a close, our guys at SB Nation have jumped into the action.

Brad Wells on the SB Nation YouTube Channel gave the New England Patriots a ' B ' for their efforts this year.

2012 NFL Draft Grades and Analysis: AFC East Edition (via sbnation)

New England had two first round picks and actually traded up twice with them to take Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones and linebacker Dont'a Hightower from Alabama.

Wells is a big fan of Alfonzo Dennard who was taken in the seventh round. The Nebraska product was expected to be a second day pick before having an alleged dispute with a police officer shortly before the draft.

Wells also approves highly of the mindset going into the draft, which was clearly focused on improving the defense at all three levels.

Only the Patriots final selection was an offensive player, Jeremy Ebert, who will mostly see special team duties if he makes the team.

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 Draft Grades: New England Gets Graded By Mel Kiper Jr.

Now that all the smoke has cleared from the 2012 NFL Draft, grades are being handed out by all the experts.

One of the best known and well respected is Mel Kiper Jr. of ESPN, who gives the New England Patriots a solid ' B-' for the efforts.

New England drew rave reviews for snagging who many feel could be the best defensive player in the draft, Chandler Jones. Coupled with Dont'a Hightower of Alabama and that's quite a first round.

Kiper felt the grade was brought down by the Patriots second round pick, Tavon Wilson. The Illinois star was a reach according to the draft guru.

Overall, New England did a nice job filling some serious needs on defense and adding some potentially quality depth. Bill Belichick actually traded up twice in the inaugural round, something he usually does the opposite of.

The more important grade will be the one given out at the end of the season, when time has passed and we all find out who the busts and sleepers were.

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 Draft Grades: Patriots Earn B-Minus From Sports Illustrated

It's the day after the 2012 NFL Draft, so naturally the internet has been inundated with draft grades. The general consensus on the New England Patriots is less glowing than in past seasons. The Pats have rightfully earned a reputation as one of the best franchises on draft day, but a couple picks this year have some experts scratching their heads. In that sense, Sports Illustrated toted the company line, giving New England a B-minus for their seven picks.

This must be what it's like on the floor of the Stock Exchange. New England started with four picks (two first, two seconds), traded up twice in the first, then traded down enough to add four picks after Round 2. The results? A mixed bag, with DE Chandler Jones (21) and LB Dont'a Hightower (25) possible moments of brilliance, and S Tavon Wilson (48) potentially a total flub.

This year's draft may ultimately be judged by how well it fixes the Pats' major problems in the secondary. Along with Wilson, New England drafted Ohio State safety Nate Ebner in the 6th round and Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard in the 7th.

For all your New England Patriots news and analysis, head to Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit this StoryStream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

Patriots 2012 NFL Draft Grades: New England Receives 'B' From SB Nation's Joel Thorman

The 2012 NFL Draft is complete and New England head coach Bill Belichick might prove once again that he is draft-master. He traded up twice in the first round to grab Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones and Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower. And in the seventh round, he plucked cornerback Alfonzo Dennard, a player who should have gone in Round 3 had it not been for punching a cop in the face. All that allows SB Nation's Joel Thorman to give the Patriots a 'B' grade in his 2012 NFL Draft grades.

Thorman does fault the Patriots a little bit as a result of the Tavon Wilson pick in the second round, but that doesn't prevent the team from being tied with the Buffalo Bills and the Miami Dolphins for the best grade in the AFC East. The New York Jets lag behind with a 'B-.'

Has Belichick done enough to fix the Patriots' problems and get them back to the Super Bowl?

For all your New England Patriots news and analysis, head to Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit this StoryStream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft: New England Patriots Sign 4 UDFAs

NEPatriotsdraft reports the following undrafted free agents have signed with the New England Patriots:

• Jeremiah Warren - 6'4" 340lbs - An offensive lineman out of South Florida, Warren has an average step off the ball, has good strength and heavy hands, and brings experience at left tackle and guard. He has a natural athleticism and good coordination for someone his size.
• Markus Zusevics - 6'5" 300lbs. - An offensive tackle out of Iowa, Zusevics has a good burst off the line, and moves with decent quickness & lateral agility, but lacks overall athleticism.
• Marcus Forston - 6'3" 300lbs - Perhaps the UDFA signing with the post potential, this defensive tackle from the Miami Hurricanes was hampered by injury and only played 3 games in the 2011 season. He has impressive agility and defends well against the run, but will only have a chance if he manages to stay healthy.
• Brad Herman - 6'4" 252lbs - The second Iowa Hawkeyes player signed by the Patriots, this tight end lacks strength and has minimal experience as a featured player in an offense. He has decent speed, though, and plays with urgency.

As usual with the post-draft flurry of activity, not all of these signings turn out exactly as they seem. Stay tuned to this story stream as more details become clear.

For all your New England Patriots news and analysis, head to Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit this storystream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results, Round 7: Jeremy Ebert Picked By New England Patriots, No. 235 Overall

With the 28th pick in the seventh round of the 2012 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have selected wide receiver, Jeremy Ebert, from Northwestern.

ESPN Scouts Inc., ranked Ebert as the 143rd best receiver prospect. Ebert was not invited to the NFL combine, but put up nice numbers at his pro day. He recorded a 4.38 40 yard dash, a 4.15 20 yard shuttle, a 33 inch vertical and 16 reps at 225 on the bench.

Here's what NFLDraftScout.com has to say about him:

He is a reliable possession receiver with soft hands and very good focus to make challenging catches. Ebert tracks the ball well and shows savvy and toughness on the field that shows up on tape. He is still widely viewed as a late round player or priority free agent, but he is moving up draft boards for most teams.

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results, Round 7: Alfonzo Dennard Picked By New England Patriots, No. 224 Overall

With the 17th pick in the seventh round of the 2012 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have selected defensive back, Alfonzo Dennard, from Nebraska.

ESPN Scouts Inc., ranked Dennard as the 14th best cornerback in the draft, and the 106th best prospect overall, so it appears the Pats got themselves some value in the seventh round.

The National Football Post had Dennard ranked even higher – their 10th best cornerback. Here's what they had to say in their scouting report:

He's strong/feisty, can press off the line and turn and run. Needs to clean up some technical flaws both in press and off the line, which hinders his balance. But can be a guy who could start both on the outside and in the slot at the next level.

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results, Round 6: Nate Ebner Picked By New England Patriots, No. 197 Overall

With the 27th pick in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots have selected defensive back, Nate Ebner, from THE Ohio State.

Ebner is a former rugby players and spent most of his time playing special teams at Ohio State. He joined the program as a walk-on freshman in 2009. He recored 11 tackles and one sack for the Buckeyes in 2012.

He wasn't at the combine, but impressed at Ohio State's pro day with a 4.55 40 yard dash, 39 inch vertical and 4.04 shuttle. He also put up 225 on the bench, 23 times.

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results: Patriots Trade Down Again, Sending 5th Round Pick To Packers For 6th Round Pick And Two 7th Round Picks

For the second time in his many days, Bill Belichick has traded down in the 2012 NFL Draft with the Green Bay Packers. Friday, the Pats traded out of the second round (no. 62), for a third rounder (no. 90) and fifth rounder (no.163) . Saturday, they traded the same fifth round pick (no. 163) they acquired on Friday for no. 197, no. 224 and no. 225.

Patriots acquire sixth-rounder (197), seventh-rounder (224) and and seventh-rounder (235).

— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) April 28, 2012

Belichick also traded up twice this year, once for Chandler Jones in the first round and another for Dont'a Hightower.

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Best Available: New England Patriots Wait Until Round 5 To Pick Again

The New England Patriots are being linked in mock drafts with Michigan State running back Edwin Baker by ESPN analyst Todd McShay, who still remains on the board as the third and final day of the 2012 NFL Draft begins Saturday.

Edwin Baker, a Junior running back, who declared after the Spartans defeated Georgia in overtime of the Outback Bowl, is a diminutive runner at 5’8" and 204 pounds who runs strong behind his pads. Baker rushed for a total of 2,293 yards in his career and scored 19 touchdowns. His Sophomore year was his best season when he averaged 5.8 yards per carry and scored 13 TD’s.

The 2012 NFL Draft best available players can be found at SB Nation's Mocking The Draft.

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.

2012 NFL Draft: TV Schedule, Start Time And More

The second round of the 2012 NFL Draft was supposed to be the final one in which the New England Patriots drafted. But after trading down from one of their second round picks, the Patriots now have one more chance to be on the clock Saturday when day three of the draft begins.

New England traded one of its second round picks and used the other to select Tavon Wilson, a defensive back from Illinois. The Patriots used the third round pick they received in the deal to select Jake Bequette, a defensive end from Arkansas, and still have a fifth rounder waiting during day three.

2012 NFL Draft Start Time: 12 p.m., Saturday, April 28

TV Schedule: ESPN

For more New England Patriots news and analysis, head over to Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston's Storystream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results, Round 3: Selections And Picks Recap

Day two of the 2012 NFL Draft is in the books, the New England Patriots made major improvements on the defensive side of the ball. If you'd like a full recap of the Pats' first two days of the draft, click here. For a full recap of the third round is below:

1. Indianapolis Colts (No. 64): Dwyane Allen, TE, Clemson
2. St. Louis Rams (No. 65): Trumaine Johnson, CB, Montana
3. Minnesota Vikings (66): Josh Robinson, CB, Central Florida
4. Denver Broncos (67): Ronnie Hillman, RB, San Diego State
5. Houston Texans (68): DeVier Posey, WR, Ohio State
   
6. Buffalo Bills (69): TJ Graham, WR, N.C. State
7. Jacksonville Jaguars (70): Bryan Anger, P, California
8. Washington Redskins (71): Josh LeRibeus, OG, SMU
9. Miami Dolphins (72): Olivier Vernon, DE, Miami
10. San Diego Chargers (73): Brandon Taylor, S, LSU
11. Kansas City Chiefs (74): Donald Stephenson, OT, Oklahoma
12. Seattle Seahawks (75): Russell Wilson, QB, Wisconsin
13. Houston Texans (76): Brandon Brooks, OG, Miami (OH)
14. New York Jets (77): Demario Davis, OLB, Arkansas St.
15. Miami Dolphins (78): Michael Egnew, TE, Missouri
16. Chicago Bears (79): Brandon Hardin, S, Oregon State
17. Arizona Cardinals (80): Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma
18. Dallas Cowboys (81): Tyrone Crawford, DE, Boise State
19. Tennessee Titans (82): Mike Martin, DT, Michigan
20. Cincinnati Bengals (83): Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers
21. Baltimore Ravens (84): Bernard Pierce, RB, Temple
22. Detroit Lions (85): Dwight Bentley, CB, La-Lafayette
23. Pittsburgh Steelers (86): Sean Spence, OLB, Miami (FL)
24. Cleveland Browns (87): John Hughes, DT, Cincinnati
    
25. Philadelphia Eagles (88): Nick Foles, QB, Arizona
26. New Orleans Saints (89): Akeim Hicks, DT, Regina
27. New England Patriots (90): Jake Bequette, DE, Arkansas
28. Atlanta Falcons (91): Lamar Holmes, OT, Southern Mississippi
29. Indianapolis Colts (92): T.Y. Hilton, WR, Florida International
30. Cincinnati Bengals (93): Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson
31. New York Giants (94): Jayron Hosley, CB, Virginia Tech
32. Oakland Raiders (95): Tony Bergstrom, OG, Utah

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results, Round 3: Jake Bequette Picked By New England Patriots, No. 90 Overall

The New England Patriots have made a point to improve their defense in the 2012 NFL Draft, and for the fourth time Friday the Pats' took a defensive player, Arkansas Razorback defensive end Jake Bequette, with their third-round selection. Bequette will be another player that will hopefully bolster a New England defensive line, which on Thursday added first-round pick Chandler Jones.

Bequette (6-foot-4, 271-pounds) is said to be a tough, smart defender who is disciplined with his assignments. The knock on Bequette is he isn't the fastest (4.75 seconds 40-yard dash) and isn't very versatile. His best position is probably as a defensive end in a 4-3 scheme.

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results: Patriots Trade Down, Sending 2nd Round Pick To Packers For 3rd & 5th Round Picks

As many people expected, Bill Belichick stayed true to form and traded down in the 2012 NFL Draft. The New England Patriots made a deal with Green Bay, sending the 62nd overall pick to the Packers in exchange for a pick in the third round, 90th overall, and another pick in the fifth round, 163rd overall.

The 62nd overall pick that New England got rid of was slated to be their last of the draft, so this deal moves them back into the action for Saturday. This is Bill Belichick's 49th draft weekend trade since taking the helm of the Patriots 12 years ago. New England may look towards their offense in the third round, having addressed some defensive needs already. They drafted Tavon Wilson (S- Illinois) in the second, after taking Chandler Jones (DE, Syracuse) and Dont'a Hightower (ILB, Alabama) in Thursday night's first round results.

All your New England Patriots needs can be found at Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Results: Picks And Selection Recap Of Round 2

Round two of the 2012 NFL Draft is in the books, and it moved just as fast as the first round. Though, there wasn't as much high-profiled player taken, there was just as much trading. The New England Patriots were one of those teams making moves, as they traded down forfeiting one of their second-round picks. Here's a recap of round two of the draft:

NFL DRAFT 2012 - SECOND ROUND

1. St. Louis Rams -- Brian Quick, WR, Appalachian State
2. Indianapolis Colts -- Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford
3. Baltimore Ravens -- Courtney Upshaw, DE, Alabama
4. Denver Broncos -- Derek Wolfe, DT, Cincinnati
5. Cleveland Browns -- Mitchell Schwartz, OT, California
6. Jacksonville Jaguars -- Andre Branch, DL, Clemson
7. St. Louis Rams -- Janoris Jenkins, DB, North Alabama
8. Carolina Panthers -- Amini Silatolu, OG, Midwestern St.
9. Buffalo Bills -- Cordy Glenn, OG, Georgia
10. Miami Dolphins -- Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford
11. New York Jets -- Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech
12. Kansas City Chiefs -- Jeff Allen, OG, Illinois
13. Chicago Bears -- Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina
14. Philadelphia Eagles -- Mychal Kendricks, OLB, California
15. Seattle Seahawks -- Bobby Wagner, OLB, Utah State
16. New England Patriots -- Tavon Wilson, S, Illinois
17. San Diego Chargers -- Kendall Reyes, DT, Connecticut
18. St. Louis Rams -- Isaiah Pead, RB, Cincinnati
19. Green Bay Packers -- Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State
20. Tennessee Titans -- Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina
21. Cincinnati Bengals -- Devon Still, DT, Penn State
22. Detroit Lions -- Ryan Broyles, WR, Oklahoma
23. Atlanta Falcons -- Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin
24. Pittsburgh Steelers -- Mike Adams, OT, Ohio State
25. Denver Broncos -- Brock Osweiler, QB, Arizona State
26. Tampa Bay Buccaneers -- Lavonte David, OLB, Nebraska
27. Philadelphia Eagles -- Vinny Curry, DE, Marshall
28. Baltimore Ravens -- Kelechi Osemele, OG, Iowa State
29. San Francisco 49ers -- LaMichael James, RB, Oregon
    
30. Green Bay Packers -- Casey Hayward, CB, Vanderbilt
    
31. New York Giants -- Rueben Randle, WR, LSU
    

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.

NFL Draft 2012: Connecticut Defensive Tackle Kendall Reyes Picked By San Diego Chargers, No. 49 Overall

2012 NFL Draft Results: Patriots Select Tavon Wilson, Illinois Safety 48th Overall

With their third pick of the 2012 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots selected Tavon Wilson, defensive back from Illinois. A senior with the Fighting Illini, Wilson joins the Patriots' earlier defensive picks Chandler Jones (DE, Syracuse) and Dont'a Hightower (ILB, Alabama), giving New England a defense heavy slate so far. Wilson is seen as a combination free safety / cornerback, which should be a big plus for a versitility-minded Bill Belichick.

The six foot tall, 205lb safety was selected All-Big Ten Conference honorable mention, and in his senior season recorded 74 tackles, seven pass deflections, one sack, one interception and two fumble recoveries, one for a touchdown. The Patriots will be looking for more production like that, as their depleted backfield was a significant issue for them in 2011.

The Patriots' next pick is the 30th pick in Round 2, 62nd pick overall. Belichick has been known to trade down, and unless they do so that will be their final pick in the 2012 NFL Draft.

For more New England Patriots news and analysis, head over to Pats Pulpit. For more on the 2012 NFL Draft, visit SB Nation Boston's Storystream. For a complete list of 2012 NFL Draft results as they happen, visit SBNation.com. For even more comprehensive coverage of the NFL Draft, visit Mocking The Draft.

2012 NFL Draft Best Available: New England Patriots With Two Picks In Round Two

The New England Patriots significantly changed their entire NFL Draft strategy Thursday night, trading up not once, but twice to select Chandler Jones of Syracuse and Dont'a Hightower of Alabama.

The second round of the draft begins Friday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN. The 2012 NFL Draft best available players can be found at SB Nation's Mocking The Draft.

New England has just two picks left in the draft because of the trades to acquire Jones and Hightower, but both of those picks are in the second round. After using Day One to solidify their defense, expect the Patriots to take the best player available when they choose in round two -- or expect them to revert to their old tricks, trading down in the draft to acquire more value for their selections.

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.

2012 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Select Jamell Fleming And Marvin Jones In Second Round

The Patriots did very well from themselves in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, selecting Chandler Jones and Dont'a Hightower with their two picks, and they'll look to continue their success in the second round, where they also have two picks. See who Dan Kader from Mocking The Draft has the Pats taking in round two.

48. New England Patriots - Jamell Fleming, CB, Oklahoma
First-round pick: Chandler Jones, DE and Dont'a Hightower, LB

After making two first-round trades, the Patriots are low on third-day picks in this year's draft. So with two second rounders, look for the Patriots to move around in the second round. If they stay here, though, a cornerback is possible. In particular, the Patriots need a cornerback who can be physical and tackle, Fleming's specialties.

62. New England Patriots - Marvin Jones, WR, California
First-round pick: Chandler Jones, DE and Dont'a Hightower, LB

The likelihood of the Patriots keeping this pick is low. But in a scenario where no trade is projected, it's hard to see the Patriots going defense with their first four picks. There may be some better wide receivers available, but none have Jones' pure speed. He would fit well in the offense the Patriots run.

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.

2012 NFL Draft Grades: Patriots Earn High Marks With Chandler Jones

The New England Patriots traded up twice in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft, first selecting Chandler Jones, then Dont'a Hightower. Joel Thorman and Pete Prisco from SB Nation and CBS Sports, respectively, gave the Patriots high grades for their first round performance.

Joel Thorman, SB Nation

B - A.J. Smith 'Good But Not Elite' Class

Patriots: It's not often you revamp a position in one day like the Patriots have done here with Chandler Jones and Dont'a Hightower. New England's pass rush was a weakness.

Pete Prisco, CBS Sports

Chandler Jones, A+

The Syracuse star was considered a bit of a late first-round sleeper, just the kind of player Belichick turns into a star in New England.

Dont'a Hightower, C

They traded back up to get this guy, but where does he play? Outside rusher? Inside? Not sure about this one.

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.

2012 NFL Draft: Day Two TV Schedule, Start Time And More

Day one of the 2012 NFL Draft is complete, with Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots coming away as one of the big winners. They traded up twice, selecting an elite pass rusher in Chandler Jones and a versatile Alabama linebacker, Dont'a Hightower.

On Friday, the Patriots will look to build on a strong first day, as rounds two and three of the draft are to be completed. The Pats own the 16th and 30th picks in the second round and none in the third.

The Rams are scheduled to go on the clock at 7 PM and every pick can be seen on both ESPN and NFL Network.

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.

NFL Draft Order 2012: Complete Order For Second And Third Round

One day of the 2012 NFL Draft is in the books, meaning we only have two more to go. The draft's first round was completed on Thursday night, and the second and third rounds will take place on Friday night, starting at 7 p.m. EST (ESPN). Below is Friday's draft order.

NFL DRAFT 2012 - SECOND ROUND

1. St. Louis Rams
2. Indianapolis Colts
3. Baltimore Ravens
4. Denver Broncos
5. Cleveland Browns
6. Jacksonville Jaguars
7. St. Louis Rams
8. Carolina Panthers
9. Buffalo Bills
10. Miami Dolphins
11. Seattle Seahawks
12. Kansas City Chiefs
13. St. Louis Rams
14. Philadelphia Eagles
15. New York Jets
16. New England Patriots
17. San Diego Chargers
18. Chicago Bears
19. Philadelphia Eagles
20. Tennessee Titans
21. Cincinnati Bengals
22. Detroit Lions
23. Atlanta Falcons
24. Pittsburgh Steelers
25. Denver Broncos
26. Houston Texans
27. Green Bay Packers
28. Baltimore Ravens
29. San Francisco 49ers
30. New England Patriots
31. New York Giants

1. Indianapolis Colts
2. St. Louis Rams
3. Minnesota Vikings
4. Cleveland Browns
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
6. Washington Redskins
7. Jacksonville Jaguars
8. Buffalo Bills
9. Miami Dolphins
10. Miami Dolphins
11. Kansas City Chiefs
12. Seattle Seahawks
13. Houston Texans
14. New York Jets
15. San Diego Chargers
16. Chicago Bears
17. Arizona Cardinals
18. Dallas Cowboys
19. Tennessee Titans
20. Cincinnati Bengals
21. Atlanta Falcons
22. Detroit Lions
23. Pittsburgh Steelers
24. Denver Broncos
25. Philadelphia Eagles
26. New Orleans Saints
27. Green Bay Packers
28. Baltimore Ravens
29. San Francisco 49ers
30. Cincinnati Bengals
31. New York Giants
32. Oakland Raiders

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.

Patriots Draft Picks 2012: First Round Results And Upcoming Picks

Well, what do you think? Bill Belichick and his New England Patriots did something quite unusual on day one of the 2012 NFL Draft on Thursday night -- they traded up twice. The end result? Chandler Jones at No. 21 overall and Dont'a Hightower at No. 25 overall. Not bad, not bad at all. Here's where we stand right now on the Patriots' draft situation.

NFL DRAFT 2012 - NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS DRAFT PICKS

• First Round, No. 21 Overall: Chandler Jones (DE, Syracuse Orange)
• First Round, No .25 Overall: Dont'a Hightower (LB, Alabama Crimson Tide)
• Second Round, No. 16 (No. 48 Overall).
• Second Round, No. 30 (No. 62 Overall).

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.

Surprise! Bill Belichick, New England Patriots Trade Up In NFL Draft

Surprise! The Hoodie baffled us all on Thursday, trading up not once, but twice in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.

NFL Draft Results 2012: First-Round Picks No. 1-32

The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft is completed, and a lot of action happened in a record amount of time. For the first time ever, the first 32 picks of the draft took just about three hours to complete and in the middle of the fast-and-furious selection were a lot of trades.

Here's the results of the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft:

NFL DRAFT 2012 - FIRST ROUND, PICKS 1-10

1. Indianapolis Colts - Andrew Luck (QB, Stanford Cardinal)
2. Washington Redskins - Robert Griffin III (QB, Baylor Bears)
3. Cleveland Browns - Trent Richardson (RB, Alabama Crimson Tide)
4. Minnesota Vikings - Matt Kalil (OT, USC Trojans)
5. Jacksonville Jaguars - Justin Blackmon (WR, Oklahoma St. Sooners)
6. Dallas Cowboys - Morris Claiborne (CB, LSU Tigers)
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mark Barron (S, Alabama Crimson Tide)
8. Miami Dolphins - Ryan Tannehill (QB, Texas A&M Aggies)
9. Carolina Panthers - Luke Kuechly (LB, Boston College Eagles)
10. Buffalo Bills - Stephon Gilmore (RB, South Carolina Gamecocks)
11. Kansas City Chiefs - Dontari Poe (DT, Memphis)
12. Philadelphia Eagles - Fletcher Cox (DT, Mississippi St. Rebels)
13. Arizona Cardinals - Michael Floyd (WR, Notre Dame Fighting Irish)
14. St. Louis Rams - Michael Brockers (DT, LSU Tigers)
15. Seattle Seahawks - Bruce Irvin (OLB, West Virginia Mountaineers)
16. New York Jets - Quinton Coples (DE, New York Jets)
17. Cincinnati Bengals - Dre Kirkpatrick (DB, Alabama Crimson Tide)
18. San Diego Chargers - Melvin Ingram (OLB, South Carolina Gamecocks)
19. Chicago Bears - Shea McClellin (OLB, Boise State Broncos)
20. Tennessee Titans - Kendall Wright (WR, Baylor Bears)
21. New England Patriots - Chandler Jones (DE, Syracuse Orange)
22. Cleveland Browns - Brandon Weeden (QB, Oklahoma St.)
23. Detroit Lions - Riley Reiff (OT, Iowa Hawkeyes)
24. Pittsburgh Steelers - David DeCastro (OG, Standford)
25. New England Patriots - Don'ta Hightower (ILB, Alabama)
26. Houston Texans - Whitney Mercilus (OLB, Illinois)
27. Cincinnati Bengals - Kevin Zeitler (OG, Wisconsin Badgers)
28. Green Bay Packers - Nick Perry (OLB, USC Trojans)
29. Minnesota Vikings - Harrison Smith (S, Notre Dame)
30. San Francisco 49ers - A.J. Jenkins (WR, Illinois)
31. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Doug Martin (RB, Boise State Broncos)
32. New York Giants - David Wilson (RB, Virginia Tech)

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.

NFL Draft 2012: Patriots Trade-Up A Second Time To No. 25, Take Dont'a Hightower

For the second time in the 2012 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots moved up to snag a defensive prospect. This time the Patriots traded their No. 31-overall pick and a fourth-rounder to the Denver Broncos, who gave them the 25th selection overall to snag Alabama Crimson Tide linebacker Donta Hightower. Earlier, the Patriots moved-up to select yracuse Orange defensive end Chandler Jones at No. 21 overall.

New England, which moved up just for just the fourth time in the Bill Belichick era, now has just two second-round picks (No. 48 and 68 overall) remaining in this year's draft.

Hightower (6-foot-4, 260 pounds) was a part of the No. 1 defense in all of college football last season, which has already seen two other player be selected in the first round. Hightower was both a Lombardi and Butkus Award finalist in his junior season.

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.

NFL Draft 2012: New England Patriots Trade-Up To No. 21, Take Chandler Jones

The New England Patriots made their first pick in the 2012 NFL Draft sooner than expected Thursday, as they traded their No. 27-overall pick and a third-round pick to the Cincinnati Bengals to select Syracuse defensive end Chandler Jones. The Patriots still have the No. 31 overall pick in the draft.

Needed to bolster their pass-rush, the Patriots selected Jones (6-foot-5, 265 pounds) who may not come right in and be a producer but has a lot of upside. Since declaring for the draft in December, Jones has slowly worked his way up draft boards.

At Syracuse, Jones didn't compile great stats as he battled injuries throughout his collegiate career, but when he was in the lineup he was a force to be reckoned with.

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.

NFL Draft 2012 Results: First Round Draft Picks, Nos. 1-10

The first round of the 2012 NFL Draft at Radio City Music Hall in New York City on Thursday night. The first two picks went according to plan, with Andrew Luck being taken No. 1 overall by the Indianapolis Colts and Robert Griffin III going to the Washington Redskins at No. 2 overall. Below is the list of the top ten draft picks from this year's draft.

NFL DRAFT 2012 - FIRST ROUND, PICKS 1-10

1. Indianapolis Colts - Andrew Luck (QB, Stanford Cardinal)
2. Washington Redskins - Robert Griffin III (QB, Baylor Bears)
3. Cleveland Browns - Trent Richardson (RB, Alabama Crimson Tide)
4. Minnesota Vikings - Matt Kalil (OT, USC Trojans)
5. Jacksonville Jaguars - Justin Blackmon (WR, Oklahoma St. Sooners)
6. Dallas Cowboys - Morris Claiborne (CB, LSU Tigers)
7. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Mark Barron (S, Alabama Crimson Tide)
8. Miami Dolphins - Ryan Tannehill (QB, Texas A&M Aggies)
9. Carolina Panthers - Luke Kuechly (LB, Boston College Eagles)
10. Buffalo Bills - Stephon Gilmore (RB, South Carolina Gamecocks)

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.

NFL Draft 2012: Boston College Linebacker Luke Kuechly Picked By Carolina Panthers At No. 9

NFL Draft 2012 Results: Andrew Luck To Colts, Robert Griffin III To Redskins At No. 1 And No. 2 Overall

Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III were the first two men to hear their names called on Thursday night at Radio City Music Hall, with Luck being drafted by the Indianapolis Colts with the No. 1 overall pick and Robert Griffin III being selected by the Washington Redskins with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2012 NFL Draft in New York City.

Luck, a quarterback out of Stanford, was the consensus top pick. Last season at Stanford, Luck threw for 3,517 yards and 37 touchdowns. Luck finished his career at Stanford with 9,430 passing yards and 82 touchdowns. Griffin, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, had 4,293 passing yards and 37 touchdown passes this year at Baylor and wrapped up his collegiate career with 10,366 passing yards and 78 scores.

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.

NFL Draft 2012: Patriots Deny Trade Talks With Seattle

For now, the New England Patriots won't be trading up into the top-15 -- at least that's what they say. Despite some rumors and speculation about a possible deal that would land the Patriots the No. 12 pick in the first round, they insist they aren't looking to acquire the Seahawks' first rounder. Per the team's official Twitter account from earlier this afternoon:

The Patriots have not spoken w/ Seattle about moving up to the #12 pick. #NFLDraft

There has been some talk about the Pats making some form of a trade as the draft approaches, especially with two first round picks, but many of those deals have the team moving down into the second or later rounds.

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.

NFL Draft 2012: Patriots 'Love' Boston College's Luke Kuechly

Luke Kuechly is a hot commodity in the 2012 NFL Draft, which kicks off at 8 p.m. EST on Thursday night (ESPN). Kuechly, the linebacker out of Boston College, is a projected top 15 pick, so it's not surprising that teams would love him. But could Kuechly wind up staying in the area and playing for our very own New England Patriots?

Really, what's not to love? Kuechly was widely considered the best collegiate linebacker last season, and he put up the numbers to prove it. Kuechly led the nation in total tackles (191) and solo stops (102) and received the Butkus Award, the Lombardi Award, the Lott IMPACT Trophy and the Bronko Nagurski Award, among other honors.

Unfortunately, as Ian Rapoport pointed out, it's unlikely that the Pats will move up to get him. New England has 27th and 31st overall picks, but rumors indicate that the Pats have been in discussions with the Seattle Seahawks about moving up to the No. 12 pick. Who really knows? Anything is possible with Bill Belichick.

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.

NFL Draft 2012: New England Patriots Have Reportedly Spoken To Seattle Seahawks About Acquiring No. 12 Pick

The New England Patriots are well-known for trading back in the draft in order to accumulate greater value for their picks. But this year, Bill Belichick and his staff might go in an opposite direction.

The Patriots have had discussions with the Seattle Seahawks about moving up to the No. 12 selection in the 2012 NFL Draft, according to Albert Breer of the NFL Network.

Breer suggests that the Patriots might just be covering their bases and seeing what they would need to surrender to move up, or they could be set on moving up to take a player who won't fall to their current slots near the end of the first round.

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.

NFL Draft 2012: First Round Draft Order, Picks No. 1- No. 32

The NFL Draft 2012 begins on Thursday, April 26, with the first round being broadcast nationally at 8 p.m. EST on ESPN. Below is the complete first round draft order.

NFL DRAFT 2012 - FIRST ROUND DRAFT ORDER

1. Indianapolis Colts
2. Washington Redskins (from St. Louis Rams)
3. Minnesota Vikings
4. Cleveland Browns
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
6. St. Louis Rams (from Washington Redskins)
7. Jacksonville Jaguars
8. Miami Dolphins
9. Carolina Panthers
10. Buffalo Bills
11. Kansas City Chiefs
12. Seattle Seahawks
13. Arizona Cardinals
14. Dallas Cowboys
15. Philadelphia Eagles
16. New York Jets
17. Cincinnati Bengals (from Oakland Raiders)
18. San Diego Chargers
19. Chicago Bears
20. Tennessee Titans
21. Cincinnati Bengals
22. Cleveland Browns (from Atlanta Falcons)
23. Detroit Lions
24. Pittsburgh Steelers
25. Denver Broncos
26. Houston Texans
27. New England Patriots (from New Orleans Saints)
28. Green Bay Packers
29. Baltimore Ravens
30. San Francisco 49ers
31. New England Patriots
32. New York Giants

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.

NFL Draft 2012: New England Patriots Have Six Picks In New York City

The draft has arrived, and Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots will be hard at work trying to improve their roster. New England owns six picks, including four of the first 64, in the 2012 NFL Draft, which begins at 8 p.m. EST on Thursday night (TV: ESPN). The draft takes place over three games, with the second and third rounds taking place Friday and the draft concluding on Saturday. Here's a list of the Patriots' six picks in this year's draft.

NFL DRAFT 2012: NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS - DRAFT PICKS

First Round: No. 27 Overall (from New Orleans Saints)
First Round: No. 31 Overall
Second Round: No. 48 Overall (from Oakland Raiders)
Second Round: No. 62 Overall
Third Round: No. 93 Overall
Fourth Round: No. 126 Overall

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

NFL Draft 2012 News: Nick Perry Reportedly Visits New England Patriots

USC defensive end Nick Perry, projected as a late-first round pick in the upcoming 2012 NFL Draft, has visited the New England Patriots, according to Fox Sports' Aaron Wilson.

Perry is likely to be selected around the same time the Patriots pick late in the first round. New England has both the 27th and 31st picks in round one.

The USC product, a 6-foot-3, 271-pounder, was named USC's defensive lineman of the year after leading the Pac-10 in sacks last year with 9.5. Despite his pass rushing skills, Perry is seen as a 'tweener who doesn't have a natural position in the NFL. Scouts are split about whether he should play defensive end or linebacker.

That might be a problem in many NFL systems, but Bill Belichick prizes versatility and could see Perry's 'tweener nature as a strength.

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

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.

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.

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 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 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.

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.

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.