Thursday, April 28, 2011

And The Patriots Select ... Nate Solder

Obviously, I am not shocked that the final version of my mock draft has hit on only 2 of the first 25 picks (correction: I did predict Jimmy Smith to the Ravens making it 3 picks nailed so far!) in the first round of tonight's NFL Draft.  The NFL Draft can't be accurately predicted - regardless of what the folks at ESPN try and make us believe - but the way it has played out so far tonight has been crazy.

With their first pick in the first round, the Patriots tabbed Nate Solder.  Solder was a two-time All-Big 12 selection at left tackle and provides the team with what should be their replacement for Matt Light, who is an unrestricted free agent.

I wanted the Patriots to take an offensive lineman (Mike Pouncey, my pick, went to the Dolphins two spots before the Pats) and I like the investment in a 6-8, 320-pound former tight end who will bring athleticism to an important position.  The Patriots now have two young tackles - don't forget Sebastian Vollmer - under their control which must make Tom Brady a happy man.

The Patriots have traded their other first round pick (28) to the Saints for a first round pick next year as well as a second round pick this year.  That gives them three second round picks (33, 56, 60) which should allow them to address a few areas of need such as a pass rusher, an interior offensive lineman, and a running back.

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