Patriots Draft Intriguing Edge Rusher Despite Size Concerns

0:00From the Daily News Now Network, this is NFL News Today. Subscribe to keep up with every headline, every game. The New England Patriots faced tough choices on defense after planning a big contract for a wide receiver to replace Defon Diggs. That move limits their spending power for a top-edge Russia in free agency. Instead, they plan to grab one with their 31st overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The team already used their first top 30 pre-draft visit on our Mason Thomas, a defensive end from the University of Oklahoma. Thomas stands out as an intriguing option, despite some question marks about his build. At just 6 foot 2 and 242 pounds, Thomas sits in the bottom 5th percentile for edge rushers. Still, he racked up 15.5 sacks over his last two college seasons, earning AP All-American honors. ESPN ranks him as the 42nd best prospect overall in this draft class. His smaller frame has not stopped him from producing at a high level.

1:00Meanwhile, the Patriots' own top 3 sack leaders last year matched his height, including Harold Landry III, who is even shorter. Underhead coach Mike Frable, size clearly takes a back seat to result on this defense. D&N is brought to you by our sponsor link in the description. To not just listen to podcasts, get lost in them comfortably, S-O-L-I-SOL-PILLOW.com.