When considering what player the Patriots might select in the first round of this year's NFL Draft, here is a breakdown of the positions the team has selected in the opening round in the past:
Defensive back -- 10
Defensive line -- 7
Running back -- 7
Wide receiver -- 6
Guard -- 4
Linebacker -- 4
Center -- 3
Offensive tackle -- 3
Quarterback -- 3
Tight end -- 3
The Patriots have taken 29 players on offense in the first round, and 21 on defense.