With their first pick in the NFL Draft, the Patriots addressed their biggest need with a small school guy.

NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

Well, another NFL draft has come and gone. All that time watching tape and writing reports all comes down to four players. Was it worth it? Absolutely!!! I love the process and this year it seemed to pay off from a personal standpoint. I correctly identified all 4 drafted players as well as 7 of the undrafted players in my Big Board series (all are still available to go back and read if interested). Not only am I really excited for the players they drafted, but a couple of the undrafted guys really excite me and I think have a legitimate shot to make the team. After last year’s draft, where I clearly was not on the same page as the team, this year gave me a boost of confidence in my assessment of the Patriots needs and players they might be interested in. Over the next few weeks, I will be doing an in depth review of the drafted players as well as a few of the undrafted guys that intrigue me. First up, we look at the Patriots first pick, Derek Rivers.

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NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

Well, the Patriots made a couple of picks last night and I would think most fans are happy going into Day 3. I will go in depth on all the picks after the draft, but both players were in my big board series, so you can get some quick notes on them now if you like. There is a lot of talent still on the board and the Patriots can still get some players who can make this team and have an impact this season. With the draft picks that will be made today as well as the UDFA guys that will be added later, this is the day good teams can become great. I love the idea of teams unearthing hidden talent and getting those Day 3 gems. The Patriots have found success in the later rounds and I think today will be no different. Good luck to all the draftees today and lets hope the Patriots can keep up the positive momentum from last night.

NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

Sorry I am getting this out late. Just got home from work. Looking forward to talking about actual Patriots picks tonight.

NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

While the Patriots did not have a pick during the first round of the draft last night, it was still highly entertaining to watch. We saw a lot of surprise picks and some players unexpectedly fall. With plenty of talented players still waiting to hear their names picked, there should be some good drama tonight as well. I won’t speak about every pick, but will highlight some of the more intriguing picks, both good and bad.

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NEPD Staff Writer: Mike Gerken

We are now just a few hours away until the NFL draft starts for most teams, but for us Patriots fans, the wait will be about 24 hours longer unless something crazy happens. My first round mock has been published, now its time to move onto the Patriots picks. It is hard enough to figure out who is going at number 2 this year, let alone number 72, so take this with a grain of salt. Enjoy!!!

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