2015 NFL Mock Draft: Mel Kiper's Patriots First Round Projection

While the faces of the Patriots are undoubtedly preparing to face the Indianapolis Colts, the scouts, cogs, and gears behind the scenes are preparing for the 2015 NFL Draft.

We have seen ESPN's Todd McShay's projection for the Patriots to select guard AJ Cann in the first round. McShay's partner, Mel Kiper, has released his first mock draft to the masses as well.

His selection for the Patriots: WR Sammie Coates

Arguably the best athlete in all of college football, Coates isn't huge at 6-foot-1 and a little more 200 pounds, but he's a guy who can run in the 4.3 range in the 40, is exceptionally strong for his size (it shows on contested catches) and is a player who can create big plays out of very little. He averaged more than 21 yards per catch in 2014 and is the kind of player whom safeties have to be wary of. In other words, when he's not making space for himself with the ball in his hands, he can create it for others. The Patriots have the ultimate matchup threat at tight end. And while it's not their style to look here, they could use one at wide receiver.

I personally really dislike any mocks that gives the Patriots a wide receiver in the first round, especially one that's been as one dimensional as Coates has been in college. It's even more head scratching when Kiper even admits that this isn't the Patriots style.

Kiper also sends defensive end Shane Ray to the Jets and linebacker Shaq Thompson to the Dolphins, both as fantastic matches.

What are your thoughts?