3 prospects listed as players to watch for Patriots at No. 31

The New England Patriots have been linked to several defensive prospects ahead of the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday. According to The Athletic's Chad Graff, three names in particular have continued to pop up for the Patriots : Texas A&M edge defender Cashius Howell, UCF's Malachi Lawrence and Clemson's T. J.

Parker. It's no secret that the Patriots need help on the edge, and any one of those young prospects could help provide a major lift on defense. Howell recorded 31 tackles and 11.

5 sacks in 13 games for the Aggies. Lawrence recorded 28 tackles and seven sacks for the Knights. And Parker turned in five sacks and 37 tackles in 12 games.

An important draft looms for the Patriots. Here’s what we’re hearing about their plans. https://t.