We’ve done a 2010 NFL Mock Draft and a Patriots Dream Draft. Here is our (mostly) unbiased prediction for who the Patriots select during the 2010 NFL Draft.
Round 1: Pick 22
Maurkice Pouncey, OL, Florida
Jared Odrick or Rolando McClain would be ideal, but it looks like both will be long gone by the time the Patriots are on the clock. Pouncey is a big center, which is becoming a must in a division that features so many huge nose tackles. The former Florida Gator has some versatility as well, with the ability to fill both guard spots if the need arises.
Round 2: Pick 44
Jerry Hughes, DE/OLB, TCU
The Patriots might need to move up a little to grab this talented Horned Frog, but he will be well worth the price. He’s a couple of inches shorter than Belichick’s prototypical outside linebacker, but his athleticism allows him to play bigger. Should be able to upgrade the position Derrick Burgess filled in 2009 immediately.
Round 2: Pick 47
Dennis Pitta, TE, BYU
Pitta is exactly what the Patriots need on offense. He runs precise routes and catches everything thrown near him. Not a great blocker, but Alge Crumpler is on board to fill that role. Tony Moeaki, Aaron Hernandez, and Rob Gronkowski are all other options that the Patriots might explore at the Tight End position.
Round 2: Pick 53
Tyson Alualu, DE, California
Alualu is built like a tree trunk. He is tough to move at the point of attack and has the versatility to play the 3-tech and the 5-tech. Shows a great motor on tape and loves to play the game.
Round 4:
Emmanuel Sanders, WR, SMU
Very intriguing prospect that has the explosiveness needed to be a great #2 receiver in the NFL. Incredible combine performance caught the attention of many a NFL scout. Still needs some polish, but has tons of upside.
Round 5:
Deji Karim, RB, Southern Illinois
I see the Patriots packaging their 6th round pick and their two 7th round picks to move into the 5th round and select this talented runner. Karim has the ability to fill in for Kevin Faulk at 3rd-down back right away.
Round 6: (Comp)
John Skelton, QB, Fordham
Round 7: (Comp)
Mike Brandtner, P, Iowa State
Round 7: (Comp)
Mike McLaughlin, LB, Boston College
Round 7: (Comp)
Jameson Konz, ATH, Kent State
