Mike Vrabel recreates a big success from his past in a new 2025 NFL mock draft by adding star RB Ashton Jeanty to the Patriots
A lot of things have changed in recent weeks leading up to the NFL Draft as the landing spot for top prospects has become more clear. And with that, it's no longer expected that Penn State edge Abdul Carter or Colorado receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter will be available at the No. 4 overall pick. […]
A lot of things have changed in recent weeks leading up to the NFL Draft as the landing spot for top prospects has become more clear. And with that, it's no longer expected that Penn State edge Abdul Carter or Colorado receiver and cornerback Travis Hunter will be available at the No. 4 overall pick.
So, will the Patriots decide to address their need at left tackle now?
In A to Z Sports' latest 2-round NFL mock draft, that's actually not the case. Instead, New England is seen adding an interesting offensive weapon.
A to Z Sports' Destin Adams has the Patriots selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with the fourth overall pick.
"This one might come as a shocker to a lot of people, but the closer we get to the draft, the more I think Ashton Jeanty is a possibility for the Patriots. Mike Vrabel saw greatness up close at RB with Derick Henry during his time with the Titans, so he knows how valuable a dominant running game would be for a young QB like Drake Maye. If Hunter goes in the top three like recent rumors suggest he will, I think Jeanty is going to be one of the top options the Patriots consider at pick four," Adams wrote.
New England currently has three running backs on the roster – Rhamondre Stevenson, Antonio Gibson, and Terrell Jennings. Stevenson is the team's top back, but he struggled last season, putting the ball on the ground too many times. However, the new coaching staff has expressed faith in Stevenson and are excited to work with him going forward.
But, there's also the fact that Vrabel got the opportunity to work with Derrick Henry during his time with the Titans, and saw how impactful he was during games. So, why wouldn't he want to add someone with a similar build to Henry?
QUICK THOUGHTS ON THIS PICK: Taking Jeanty is an interesting idea, but at this moment, it seems more likely the Patriots will either draft a tackle or even trade back.
Latest 2025 2-round NFL mock draft has Patriots taking Texas WR Matthew Golden in the second round
As for the second round, Adams has the Patriots bringing in another receiver in Texas' Matthew Golden.
Golden recently accepted an invitation to attend the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, according to Dane Brugler of The Athletic. And that says a lot considering they typically only invite players who are expected to be drafted inside the first round. So, he might not even be available when the Patriots second pick roles around.
Throughout the 2024 season, Golden led the team with 49 receptions for 787 yards and eight touchdowns. The Longhorns deep run in the playoffs gave teams the opportunity to get a better glimpse of what he can do, and has allowed him to move up the draft boards.
QUICK THOUGHTS ON THIS PICK: While Golden would be an strong addition, the Patriots have bigger needs at the moment, especially considering they have brought in Stefon Diggs. If they aren't going to take a tackle in the first round, then they would absolutely need to do so in the second.
New England offensive coordinator and WR coach use one word to describe new Patriots WR Stefon Diggs
The perfect explanation.