The New England Patriots are gearing up for the NFL Draft on April 30, and fans are eagerly dissecting every mock draft they can find. Josh Edwards from CBS Sports has weighed in, projecting the Patriots to select an edge rusher, a defensive lineman, and a tight end with their first three picks.
The Patriots' needs this offseason are clear, especially after their Super Bowl loss highlighted issues in both offensive and defensive line performance. They allowed six sacks and managed just one themselves, alongside two costly turnovers.
Despite signing guard Alijah Vera-Tucker, whose potential is tempered by an injury history, the offensive line remains a priority. Similarly, the departure of an edge rusher in free agency means the pass rush still needs bolstering.
Ignoring the importance of sacks is a risk no NFL team can afford to take.
In Edwards' mock draft, the Patriots' first pick at No. 31 is Missouri edge rusher Zion Young. Standing at 6'6" and 262 pounds, Young fits a critical need, though he's ranked as the 10th-best edge.
With K'Lavon Chaisson leaving in free agency, Young could become a key piece for Mike Vrabel's defense. Despite his impressive 16.5 tackles for loss, his 6.5 sacks suggest room for growth.
Next, Edwards projects Domonique Orange, a defensive lineman from Iowa State, at No. 63.
Orange's stats don't jump off the page-18 tackles, a pass defended, and no sacks in 2025. With the defensive line weakened by departures, Orange's limited production raises questions about his impact.
At No. 95, Edwards selects Sam Roush, a tight end from Stanford.
Roush, a towering 6'6", 267-pound player, caught 49 passes for 545 yards and two touchdowns last year. While the Patriots need a tight end, they've already signed Julian Hill, a blocking specialist.
Roush is seen more as a blocker too, though he can contribute in the passing game.
Edwards' picks address the edge and tight end positions, but questions linger. Young's sack numbers need improvement, and Roush may not offer the pass-catching prowess needed. Meanwhile, the offensive line remains unaddressed, leaving some fans wondering if these choices will truly meet the Patriots' needs.