Patriots Predicted To Add 21.5-Sack Pass Rusher Who Could Transform Defense originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The New England Patriots probably never imagined they would hold the 31st pick in this year’s NFL draft after winning only four games in 2024.
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However, they now have a chance to build on their remarkable run by bringing in some talented young players.
Even though New England has the 31st pick, it could still land a standout pass rusher. NFL.com’s Mike Band predicted that the Patriots would draft Clemson’s defensive end, T.J. Parker.
“This need is apparent in New England, with Patriots.com writer Mike Dussault calling edge the biggest hole on the roster while noting the defense simply didn’t generate enough pressure last season with a standard four-man rush,” Band wrote on Friday. “Parker is a high-upside answer for a team still trying to build out a championship-caliber front.”
Parker played three seasons at Clemson, recording a total of 21.5 sacks over 39 games. Yet, last season his performance declined, as he registered only five sacks after recording 11 in 2024.
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The 21-year-old pass rusher has immense potential, and if he had been eligible for the NFL draft after 2024, he could have been a top 10 pick. The Patriots might find themselves in a great position to snag a star if Parker slips to the 31st pick.
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