Round 2, 38th Overall: Nic Scourton, Defensive End, Texas A&M

Scourton has been a formidable force on Texas A&M’s defensive line. Known for his strength and pass-rushing skills, Scourton recorded 15 sacks over his last two years of college and 29 tackles-for-loss. His high motor and ability to disrupt opposing offenses would make him a needed and valuable addition to the Patriots’ defensive front.

Scourton is still raw but is loaded with energy and plays with the kind of relentlessness that littered the Patriots free agency signings on defense earlier this week. Edge is a huge need, even with Harold Landy projected to lock down one side of the defense. Scourton could instantly contribute as a designated pass rusher and has plenty of talent to develop into a three-down player.

Round 3, 69th Overall: Aireontae Ersery, Offensive Tackle, Minnesota

Ersery has been a cornerstone of Minnesota’s offensive line at left tackle. Standing at 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds, Ersery’s accolades include a Second-team All-Big Ten selection in 2023 and being named the Big Ten Offensive Lineman of the Year and First-team All-Big Ten in 2024.

Ersery’s size and athleticism make him an ideal candidate to fortify the Patriots’ offensive line, providing better protection for Maye and opening holes in the run game. If he’s still there in the early third round like he was in this mock draft, it would be a no-brainer to plug him into the offensive line room. The question will be if he can stick on the left side and be a long-term solution at one of the biggest spots of need this spring. He has the size and length worth taking a chance on.

Round 3, 77th Overall: Kevin Winston Jr., Safety, Penn State

Winston was one of my favorite players to speak at the podium at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. A mature leader, he’s a balanced safety and hard hitter. He missed all but three games during his senior season due to an ACL tear but is another intense defender with the necessary play demeanor to fit into the remade Patriots defense.

Winston was known for his versatility and leadership at Penn State but is relatively inexperienced, with just 28 games played in college. He attacks hard downhill and is a sure tackler, and while he doesn’t fill a major Patriots need at the moment, Winston is one player who just fits well and could develop into something special.