Now that the 2012 NFL Draft is over, we're profiling each team's draft. Who were the steals? Who were the reaches? We continue with the New England Patriots.
2012 NFL Draft analysis: New England Patriots
Each year in late April, like clockwork, Bill Belichick moves back in the draft order to collect more picks. But this year, Belichick managed to move up in the first round to land talented pass rusher Chandler Jones, who has immediately drawn praise for his engaging personality. With defense being New England's glaring weakness, Belichick used his second first round choice on linebacker Dont'a Hightower.
The run on defense continued through the weekend. Six of the Patriots’ seven picks were used on defensive players. Scheme versatile, hard-working players were the familiar themes of the draft for Belichick and the Patriots.
Late-Round Steal: CB Alfonzo Denard, Round 7, pick 224
Alfonzo Denard was considered a first round prospect for much of the college football season. An on field fight and a physical altercation with a police officer caused his stock to absolutely plummet. Add to that his disappointing on field performance at the Senior Bowl and Scouting Combine, and Denard was not a hot ticket on draft weekend. But Bill Belichick thinks he can straighten him out and make the most of his day-one talent. Given the desperate need for cornerbacks, this is a calculated risk that has plenty of upside and not much downside.
Questionable Pick: S Tavon Wilson, Round 2, pick 48
Tavon Wilson was one of the surprise selections of the second round last weekend. It seems like a reach on the surface, but it’s always impossible to know where other NFL teams had a player ranked. With secondary being a big need, and Wilson’s versatility, this pick makes sense. It just may have been a bit early for the Illinois safety.
2013 mock draft pick: Josh D - Keenan Allen, Wide Receiver, California | Matthew Fairburn - Johnny Adams, Cornerback, Michigan State
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