Skip to main content
Come Fan with UsSunday, June 28, 2026

New England Patriots select Chandler Jones No. 21 in 2012 NFL Draft

Surprise, surprise. Instead of trading back, the Patriots have traded up. The Patriots gave up pick Nos. 27 and 93 to the Bengals for the No. 21 pick.

In doing so, the Patriots add the most intriguing pass rusher in this year’s class. Jones could be a terror if he’s coached up properly. So to see him go to a team like the Patriots is a scary thought. Jones has an inconsistent burst, but length that cannot be taught. He’s also versatile, lining up all over the place for Syracuse. Now will the Patriots keep pick 31?

Quick scouting notes: If there is one player comparable to Jason Pierre-Paul of the Giants in this class, it’s Jones. He’s a lanky athlete with extremely high upside because of his athleticism and closing speed. Has a frame that could easily get up to 270 pounds.

For more on the New England Patriots, check out Pats Pulpit. Get more from SB Nation at their 2012 NFL Draft StoryStream here.

Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenchesSB Nation NFL mock draft: Eagles stick with what works; invest in the trenches
Mocking the Draft

This player should be a plug-and-play replacement for Mekhi Becton right off the bat.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31SB Nation NFL mock draft: Chiefs get an absolute steal of a WR at No. 31
Mocking the Draft

This guy’s got talent, plus playing with Patrick Mahomes automatically elevates his potential.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30SB Nation NFL mock draft: Bills fill biggest need with a top CB at No. 30
Mocking the Draft

He’s a bit of a liability in the run game, but his potential in the pass game was enough for Buffalo Rumblings.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pickSB Nation NFL mock draft: Commanders give Jayden Daniels a fluid playmaker at WR with No. 29 pick
Mocking the Draft

This pick could help the Commanders build on last year’s excellent season.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan HutchinsonSB Nation NFL mock draft: Lions bring in a pass-rushing partner in crime for Aidan Hutchinson
Mocking the Draft

It’s a high-potential pick for a Detroit defense that needs a solid pass rusher.

By Michael Peterson
Mocking the Draft
SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26SB Nation NFL mock draft: Rams keep building defensive identity at No. 26
Mocking the Draft

This rookie would be a great complement to Jared Verse and Byron Young.

By Michael Peterson