Full 7-round mock draft 3.0: Patriots fill needs with bevy of picks

The New England Patriots will be on the clock in just over two weeks, as the 2026 NFL Draft will kick off in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. And based on how free agency went, there are still a lot of needs the Patriots need to address. So, let's get into another New England NFL mock draft.

Round 1, Pick 31: Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri The video of Mike Vrabel at Arizona State Pro Day with offensive tackle Max Iheanachor has gone viral, with many expecting the Patriots to now target him. However, given the limited number of tackles in free agency and the need for them across the league, it's unknown if Iheanachor will still be there at 31. So if that's the case, and New England makes the decision not to trade up, then the other immediate need is at edge, and it happens to be a good class for that position.

The Patriots signed edge defender Dre’Mont Jones this offseason, having lost K’Lavon Chaisson while also releasing Anfernee Jennings and Jahlani Tavai. They still have Harold Landry, who wasn't playing at 100 percent last season due to a knee injury, as well as some other players who can fill in if needed. But they are in need of more help, and Young is a very good fit for New England's system.

Young finished the 2025 season with 57 pressures, 6. 5 sacks, 16. 5 tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles.