With the NFL Draft over, all of the New England Patriots' picks in the books. Let's take a look at the team's early and mid round picks.

Round 2 

Cyrus Jones (60th Overall)- Defensive Back/Return Specialist, Alabama

Note: Jones was New England's first pick, after losing their first round selection. Coming from a college football powerhouse in Alabama, Jones knows how to win and play in big games. Many people seem to believe he will fit into the Patriot system as a slot corner, but I wouldn't count out his abilities along the outside. His biggest value, at first, will most likely be felt on special teams as a punt returner. Jones wowed at Alabama as one of the nation's top returners and will allow the Pats to keep receivers Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola off the field for punts and fresh for more offensive plays. All in all, the pick was a solid selection. Jones can add immediate value to the team and has a high ceiling.

Round 3

Joe Thuney (78th Overall) Offensive Line, North Carolina State

Note: Thuney is the model of versatility, based solely on the fact that he played all five line positions during his time at NC State. The initial thought is that Thuney will challenge for a spot at either one of the guard positions, however, as that seems to be his top spot. The Pats struggled all season long last year along the line, so addressing the depth early in the draft was a key for them. While Thuney wasn't among the top players at any line position, his ability to play all of them and assume the duties across the board in a pinch make him a top candidate to help New England. Having a guy like Thuney, who can back up each position, is key for any team. Overall, a nice selection and a guy who could blossom into a starter throughout his career.

Jacoby Brissett (91st Overall) Quarterback, North Carolina State

Note: Brissett was a bit of a shock pick as the belief heading into the draft was that the Patriots would most likely address their quarterback depth in free agency, with the potential 4-game suspension of Tom Brady looming over them. Instead, New England spent an early round pick on a guy who was viewed as more of a middle to late round selection. Thuney, who was his teammate in college, gave him glowing reviews and said his work ethic and leadership were top notch. The Patriots obviously saw something they liked in Brissett, to take him so early, while other, higher ranked quarterbacks were still on the board. With Brady's suspension being recently reinstated, Brissett becomes the second quarterback on the depth chart for when the season starts, behind Jimmy Garoppolo. Brissett's ability to move out of the pocket and use his legs could add a boost to his odds of sticking around long term.

Vincent Valentine (96th Overall) Defensive Tackle, Nebraska

Note: Valentine was another selection that was a bit surprising. Coming into the draft, one of the top needs for New England was along the defensive interior. It was a bit of a surprise that the Pats went with Valentine in the third round, however, after the defensive tackle declared after an injury-marred junior campaign. Two solid season prior to last year, though, solidified Valentine as a big bodied run stopper, who has the athleticism to play in some different schemes. He'll join last year's first round pick Malcom Brown and veteran Alan Branch as the team's top interior options.

Round 4

Malcolm Mitchell (112th Overall) Wide Receiver, Georgia

Note: The only mid-round selection the Patriots had went to Mitchell, who played both outside and in the slot during his time at Georgia. Mitchell got off to a hot start in his Bulldog career but suffered an ACL tear on opening day of his junior season. One red shirt year and a senior campaign later and Mitchell is ready to make an impact in the pros. New England needs a down field option at receiver and Mitchell could fill that void. His experience and age could help him catch on to the advanced offensive playbook, which has caused issues for other wide outs in the past. With former second round pick Aaron Dobson still struggling to make an impact on the team, Mitchell could battle for the spot vacated by the lack of Brandon LaFell.

 

 

More From WBSM-AM/AM 1420