The New England Patriots did not have a first or second round picks. So, the Patriots had to do a good job drafting in later rounds and helping their team get better. For what my opinion is, I think they did a pretty good job with what they had.

Round 3: DE Derek Rivers from Youngstown St. (from Titans). The Patriots risked taking a small college player (FCS School) but believe in the 6’4" 250 pounder and are looking for speed on the edge. Rivers performed well in the Senior Bowl and his college coach has a relationship with Belichick. At the very least, this guy can run and will contribute on special teams. Fantasy Impact: None in 2017.

Round 3 (Second Selection of round): OT Antonio Garcia, Troy University. A second selection in the third round coming from a small university again. In the third round, taking a chance on a 6’6" player who plays with a nasty mean streak is always good for the running game and protecting QB Tom Brady. It will be up to the New England coaching staff to ensure his pass protection gets better but what an upside potential this selection has. Remember, the Patriots gave up a late third-round pick and a fourth-round pick to move up and select OT Antonio Garcia. Fantasy Impact: None 2017.

Round 4: DE Deatrich Wise, Arkansas. This could be a great rotational player for the Patriots from the first game. Deatrich is a worker and grinder versus a top athlete according to the "people in the know". Once again, lots of upside and a huge risk but the Patriots can afford to take that risk. Deatrich needs to work on his pass rush, but he can stop the run and that is needed across the board in this league. Fantasy Impact: None 2017.

Round 6: OT Conor McDermott. His measurables list out at 6’8" and long arms which are perfect for an OT in the NFL. McDermott needs to get stronger according to the experts but that is just time in the weight room and maturity. Fantasy Impact: None

So the Patriots had no early picks but still managed to create additional cheap depth with upside. You really cannot ask for more than that.

End.