Round 7, Pick 226: Patriots Draft Illinois DE Michael Buchanan

The New England Patriots have made their first of two seventh round picks, taking Illinois defensive end / outside linebacker Michael Buchanan with the 226th overall pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

Buchanan is a hybrid edge linebacker / end who has very intriguing physical traits and was widely considered one of the better players left on the board (as if that really matters), expected to go as early as the fourth round. At over 6'5" and 255 lbs, Buchanon combines rare length (34" arms) with strong athletic ability. He ran a 4.71 in the 40 yard dash, and a 6.91 in the 3-cone drill, meaning he likely has excellent change of direction skills.

Buchanan was involved in a couple of off the field altercations which likely affected his draft stock, and he could certainly use a few extra pounds on his frame. However, there's no doubt that the potential is there. And if he can hit the weight room, stay out of trouble, and work to refine his technique, he could be quite a seventh round find for the Patriots.

He's the type of player that despite going very late, has a very real chance at making the final roster. With the addition of Buchanan and the selection of Jaime Collins in the second round, the Patriots have added a couple of long, dynamic athletes to their front seven. Solid pick.