Todd McShay just came out with his latest three-round 2011 NFL Mock Draft (insider only), which means that he spent a lot of time projecting picks for the Patriots, who have six picks in that span.
In the first round, he has the Patriots taking Wisconsin's J.J. Watt and Alabama's Mark Ingram. Watt is a defensive end that would be a good fit in the Patriots 3-4 defensive scheme. Ingram is the former Heisman trophy winning running back that could go a long way in solidifying the Pats backfield. McShay admits that the Patriots probably won't target a running back in round one, but might not be able to pass on Ingram if he is still available at No. 28.
McShay has the Patriots taking Georgia guard Clint Boling with the 33rd overall pick (which they acquired from Carolina), and Alabama tackle James Carpenter with their own pick in the second round. With so many picks in the first few rounds, the Patriots can afford to really load up at a position of need (offensive line) like McShay projects them to do here.
In the third, McShay has the Patriots focusing on their defense, selecting Pitt DE Jabaal Sheard and Clemson defensive back Marcus Gilchrist. Sheard would probably have to transition to an outside linebacker in the Patriots scheme, but he ha shown the ability to get after the quarterback. Gilchrist might be a little bit small for safety in the NFL, but he is a ball-hawk and should be able to make some plays for the Patriots.