Happy days, everyone! ESPN's Todd McShay has released his latest mock draft and he put out two rounds to dissect.
The New England Patriots haven't appeared in mock drafts this season because of the whole don't have a first round pick issue, but a two-round mock changes the game. Thanks to the Chandler Jones trade, the Patriots have two consecutive picks at the end of the second round.
60. New England Patriots: Nick Kwiatkoski, ILB, West Virginia
A three-year starter, Kwiatkoski comes with outstanding makeup and leadership skills. He has a chance to add immediate depth to a linebacker corps while contributing on special teams.
Kwiatkoski only makes sense if McShay thinks the Patriots won't retain either Jamie Collins or Dont'a Hightower in free agency. There's a zero percent chance that the team loses both. Linebacker Shea McClellin is under a multi-year contract, which means that Kwiatkoski would be one of the top three linebackers moving forward.
Remember that the Patriots picked up Hightower when Jerod Mayo and Brandon Spikes were still playing, and then added Collins in 2013, so this wouldn't be unprecedented. But we also have to factor in that linebacker usage has greatly changed over the past few years. This is a questionable fit.
61. New England Patriots*: Cyrus Jones, CB, Alabama
Standing just 5-foot-10, Jones lacks prototypical measurables, but he's instinctive, has quality mirror skills and is both physically and mentally tough.
The Patriots have Malcolm Butler (restricted free agent in 2017) and Logan Ryan (unrestricted free agent in 2017). Justin Coleman and Darryl Roberts are promising depth, but they're very unproven. But for the 2016 season, what happens if Ryan or Butler gets injured? Can Coleman and Roberts be trusted to start?
Jones is a great, versatile player that can play in the slot and on the outside. He can return punts and play special teams. He's also a recent convert from wide receiver so he has great hands and plenty of upside.
What do you think?