Patriots' Draft Strategy: Edge Rusher & WR for Maye

0:00You're listening to NFL News Today. Subscribe now for fast, daily updates on your team. The New England Patriots are looking to build around young quarterback Drake May this offseason by finding fresh playmakers in the NFL draft. With the 31st overall pick in the first round, they could target a strong past rusher who slides a bit, then grab a wide receiver later. Earlier this week, ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reed put out a new mock draft projecting the Patriots to select Texas A&M ed rusher Cassius Howell. At number 31, he paired that with Connecticut wide receiver scholar Bell at pick number 63 in the second round. This approach gives New England a mix of defensive help up front and a reliable target for May addressing key gaps after a tough season. Fans and analysts see it as a smart way to balance the roster without big free agent Bell brings solid experience, having played five college seasons, three at Wisconsin and two at Yukon. Across 52 games, he racked up 220 receptions for 2,893 yards and 24 touchdowns.

1:06As the draft nears, these picks could kickstart the rebuild, giving May the weapons he needs to grow into a star. Keep an eye on how the board falls, come April. This episode is brought to you in partnership with our sponsor, relax deeper, reset faster, come for you can hear S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.