Pro Football Weekly's Nolan Nawrocki, a personal favorite among draft analysts, has produced his mock draft 2.0.
Nawrocki splits the Patriots' first two picks, envisioning a scenario where UConn defensive lineman Kendall Reyes is the choice at No. 27, while Georgia Tech receiver Stephen Hill gets the nod at the 31 spot.
"The Patriots are more than capable of stuffing the run with Vince Wilfork and Kyle Love, but they could benefit from more interior penetration, and Reyes has the traits and makeup to appeal to a coaching staff that is one of the best in the league in developing talent," Nawrocki writes, before focusing on the intriguing pick of Hill.
"Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels took a shot on Demaryius Thomas in Denver, and with Chad Ochocinco failing to grasp the offense, the team is still in need of a legitimate vertical threat."
To read the mock draft, CLICK HERE.
ANALYSIS: Reyes, who grew up in Nashua, NH, stood out at the combine as a possible Patriots-type target in part because of his versatility. He could potentially be a 3-4 right defensive end while also contributing as an interior rusher. Hill has been rising up the charts after a strong combine performance. He didn't have big production, but part of that is tied to the offensive system in which he played. The Patriots have loaded up at receiver, but when looking at the ages atop the depth chart, it wouldn't be a surprise if developing a younger target is still on the radar.