The Patriots are slated to pick twice on day two of the NFL Draft, as the team currently holds two second round picks: pick 48 and pick 62. Personally, I think we'll see the Patriots trade back from 48 to pick up a third round pick and a couple of day three picks, but we'll have to wait and see. For now, I'll go through some of the top players still available that could be potential Patriots targets tonight:
Courtney Upshaw, DE/LB, Alabama: The Patriots already went with another Alabama linebacker and got a pass rusher in Chandler Jones, so taking Upshaw is probably unlikely. Still, if Upshaw somehow fell to 48, he'd have to be an option.
Devon Still, DT/DE, Penn State: Still is a big-bodied defensive lineman who could be an intriguing option for the Patriots as a developmental 3-tech and 5-tech at pick 48. Doubt he lasts that long.
Peter Konz, C/G, Wisconsin: If the Patriots are in the market for an interior lineman, Konz is certainly an intriguing option for the team. Not sure if he will be around at 48.
Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama: Incredibly talented cover corner, but comes with off-the-field baggage.
Andre Branch, DE/LB, Clemson: Would fit the mold of Chandler Jones as a long, athletic pass rusher. Could be had at 48.
Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson: Big strong defensive tackle who could help beef up the Patriots defensive line.
Lamar Miller, RB, Miami: Arguably the best back still left in the 2012 Draft.
Mohamed Sanu, WR, Rutgers: Big, physical, savvy wide receiver who could be had at pick 48.
Alameda Ta'amu, DL, Washington: Two-gap defensive tackle who has 5-tech or NT potential. Would beef up defensive line.
Dwight Jones, WR, North Carolina: Big wide receiver with low floor, high ceiling.
Brandon Boykin, CB, Georgia: Explosive kick returner, capable slot cover corner. Would fill multiple needs.
Markelle Martin, George Illoka, Brandon Taylor, Trumaine Johnson: Arguably the four best safeties available. The Patriots could really use help at this position, and it doesn't seem out of the question that the Patriots could take one of these guys at 62 or in the third if they trade back.
Kendall Reyes, DL, Connecticut: One of the most capable 5-techniques left in this draft. Could be gone before 48.
Chris Polk, RB, Washington: If the Patriots want to pick up a powerful back to compliment Stevan Ridley, Polk could be their guy.
Brandon Washington, G/T, Miami: Highly rated T/G that could add depth and a developmental prospect to the Patriots offensive line.
Derek Wolfe, DL, Cincinnati: Could line up at just about any defensive line spot in any front that the Patriots run. Could be had at 62 or in 3rd.
Ron Brooks, CB, LSU: Underrated cover cornerback who could go as high as the late second round.
Joe Adams, WR, Arkansas: Explosive weapon at the wide receiver position who could immediately contribute as a kick returner.
Stephen Hill, WR, Georgia Tech: Very raw, but a high-upside prospect that could be selected in the second round with an eye on 2013.
Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State: Needs some development, but is an athletic, strong DT who can make plays in the backfield. Could go early in the 2nd round.