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.
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.
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.
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