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.