NFL Draft 2024: Instant grade for the Patriots’ sixth-round pick, CB Marcellas Dial

Coming out of a 70-pick hole, the New England Patriots made their sixth selection of the NFL Draft at No. 180 in Round 6. They opted to go with their first defensive player: cornerback Marcellas Dial out of South Carolina.

Given his draft status, Dial is not a lock to make the team. However, there is a path for him onto a roster with some questions at his position.

6-180 CB Marcellas Dial (South Carolina)

Bernd Buchmasser: Dial might not have been the top-ranked cornerback on the consensus big board at No. 180, but he has something the Patriots need: experience playing outside cornerback. He offers good size and adequate speed, giving Mike Pellegrino something to work with. | B

Brian Hines: New England adds a developmental man corner to their secondary in Dial, who logged over 1,800 snaps along the boundary at South Carolina. He has the size (5’11”) and speed (4.46-second 40) to stay outside at the next level and also flashed strong ball skills with 25 pass breakups over the last two seasons. | B-

Dial is the ninth cornerback on a depth chart that is being led by Christian Gonzalez, Jonathan Jones and Marcus Jones. He will compete for a roster spot alongside them.

How would you grade the selection, though? Please let us know below!