Patriots Draft: High Upside, Thin Late Rounds

0:00It's April 26, I'm Cory with the story, and this is NFL News Today Football News powered by AI. The New England Patriots had a mix-back in the 2026 NFL draft, shining early but fading fast later on. They snagged a fence-attackal Caleb Lomu at Pick 31, a steal who wasn't supposed to last that long, especially with tackle needs looming from, retirements and possible trades. Then they traded up for Illinois-Edgerusher Gabe Jockas at 53, a top-notch git. Those moves cost them, but they held on to their third-rounder to grab Notre Dame tight in Eli Raradon, a six-foot-seven athlete with smooth movement, and solid hands. Meanwhile the trade-ups created a huge gap with no picks for nearly 100 selections. Fans and analysts are split praise for the premium talent of top, but groans over the thin late rounds. The final six picks from 171 to 245 are all bubble-guys scrapping for roster spots this off-season. Rareden stands out as a high-upside traits pick, though he's raw after limited college

1:03snaps and no touchdowns last year. Jockas brings proven edge rush juice, and Lomu bolsters the line right away. Coming off a Super Bowl push and smart-free agency signings that plug every gap, this draft class might not need to carry the load, could be just one. Partner by week one, and that's fine for now.