Patriots select All-Big Ten slot game wrecker WR in 2026 mock draft

The New England Patriots’ situation at wide receiver this offseason calls for the front office to select a standout prospect at the position in the 2026 NFL Draft. But like Patriots executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf mentioned at his pre-draft press conference on Monday, it’s hard for New England to fully determine who they’ll take with the pick before seeing how the 30 selections prior to theirs go on draft day. According to NFL.

com’s Gennaro Filice in a mock draft, the Patriots capitalize on the opportunity to select Indiana wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr. with the No. 31 overall pick in the draft, and take the green light.

“The Romeo Doubs pickup was solid, but Drake Maye’s receiving corps still isn’t up to snuff following the release of Stefon Diggs,” Filice said. “Cooper’s a well-rounded player with a mature game that could immediately fill the slot role in New England. ” Indiana won the National Championship in large part behind Cooper's versatile play last season.

The 22-year-old went for 937 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns in 2025. Cooper rivaled Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate in 2025. Tate is widely regarded as the top prospect at the wide receiver position in this year’s draft class.