This is Patriots Draft Countdown presented by bud Light.

This is Patriots Draft Countdown presented by bud Light.

Welcome to an NFL draft posted by the writers of Patriots dot Com. From now until you here the New England Patriots Slight the Countdown is on. Welcome to the Patriots Draft Countdown presented by bud Light. What's up, everybody? Welcome to another episode of Patriots Draft Countdown, brought to you by bud Light. Bud Light Easy to Drink, Easy to Enjoy, the official beer sponsor of the New England Patriots. And we're back, guys, just a little over three weeks to go to the draft. We've rifled through a lot of prospect videos and we're here just to kick off this show talking about some of the latest draft news. I think we're kind of settling into silly season. Paul feels like this is when people start to, you know, you hear things like what that doesn't make sense? They love that guy, most notably with Tony Pauline's report yesterday that Elliott wolf enamored with JJ McCarthy, the hot new name here on the mock draft circuit. So what do you take away from that anything?

Welcome to an NFL draft posted by the writers of Patriots dot Com. From now until you here the New England Patriots Slight the Countdown is on. Welcome to the Patriots Draft Countdown presented by bud Light. What's up, everybody? Welcome to another episode of Patriots Draft Countdown, brought to you by bud Light. Bud Light Easy to Drink, Easy to Enjoy, the official beer sponsor of the New England Patriots. And we're back, guys, just a little over three weeks to go to the draft. We've rifled through a lot of prospect videos and we're here just to kick off this show talking about some of the latest draft news. I think we're kind of settling into silly season. Paul feels like this is when people start to, you know, you hear things like what that doesn't make sense? They love that guy, most notably with Tony Pauline's report yesterday that Elliott wolf enamored with JJ McCarthy, the hot new name here on the mock draft circuit. So what do you take away from that anything?

I don't take much in terms of what it means directly to the Patriots. I think that Elliott Wolf and the you know, the cast of thousands that he's evidently been traveling with while you know, going on to watch all these guys. I think McCarthy's an interesting prospect only because of what I've been saying all along. I just think he has the most unknown because I just haven't seen him be able to do all the things that all the other guys had to do for their teams in college. So I think there's a skill set there, you know. I think he's got you know, good enough size. I think he runs tough. I think he's pretty athletic. I think he's shown that he can move around and make plays outside the pocket. But like I said, I just haven't seen him be able to, you know, put a team on his back and have to throw the ball thirty five forty forty five times to ensure victory. I've seen all the other guys have to do that from time to time.

I don't take much in terms of what it means directly to the Patriots. I think that Elliott Wolf and the you know, the cast of thousands that he's evidently been traveling with while you know, going on to watch all these guys. I think McCarthy's an interesting prospect only because of what I've been saying all along. I just think he has the most unknown because I just haven't seen him be able to do all the things that all the other guys had to do for their teams in college. So I think there's a skill set there, you know. I think he's got you know, good enough size. I think he runs tough. I think he's pretty athletic. I think he's shown that he can move around and make plays outside the pocket. But like I said, I just haven't seen him be able to, you know, put a team on his back and have to throw the ball thirty five forty forty five times to ensure victory. I've seen all the other guys have to do that from time to time.

Van, I'm gonna tee up. And the last episode we showed a film breakdown, you did a McCarthy. You know, we talked so much about guys like Mac Jones and Joe Burrow and these guys that come from LSU and Alabama that have superstar casts around them, and maybe not quite the case with JJ McCarthy. Do you think he's get I think downgraded before you know, think if he was playing on one of those teams, Yeah, I'd be talking a little bit higher about it.

Van, I'm gonna tee up. And the last episode we showed a film breakdown, you did a McCarthy. You know, we talked so much about guys like Mac Jones and Joe Burrow and these guys that come from LSU and Alabama that have superstar casts around them, and maybe not quite the case with JJ McCarthy. Do you think he's get I think downgraded before you know, think if he was playing on one of those teams, Yeah, I'd be talking a little bit higher about it.

Well, that's what a lot of people that like JJ McCarthy will tell you. I'll just say this along the same lines as Paul. Last week it was that the Commanders are enamored with JJ McCarthy. This week it's now the Patriots that are enamored with JJ McCarthy. So I think that people are just trying to figure out where to put JJ McCarthy. Like, obviously he's a guy that's going to go a little bit higher than maybe we thought a couple months ago. He's going to probably go in the top half of the first round, But is it going to be as early as two or three or are we more talking about in that mac Jones? Can he Pickett range in the teens? I would just say that proceed with caution this time of year. This time last year, Will Levis was a top ten pick. In twenty twenty one, Mac Jones was a San Francisco forty nine er at number three overall. Then we get to the draft and they end up finding their level and they end up going in a more comfortable range for their skill set. I think that there's a lot to like about JJ McCarthy in terms of the talent and just the ball of clay that he is. You know, he does have the ability, like Paul said, to move get outside the pocket. He's elusive in the pocket, put down a fantastic three cone times. So he's got that agility and that jitterbugness about him in the pocket. And he's got a plus arm. I wouldn't say it's an elite arm, but it's a better than average NFL arm as well, So you have some things to work with. But there's a lot of things I think in his game that needs seasoning, a post snap decision making probably being the biggest one, but also accuracy in terms of ball placement down the field too. So I'm not a JJ McCarthy guy. Everybody knows that, but I'm trying to open my mind and not be as critical about it because clearly there are people in the league that have a lot of love for him.

Well, that's what a lot of people that like JJ McCarthy will tell you. I'll just say this along the same lines as Paul. Last week it was that the Commanders are enamored with JJ McCarthy. This week it's now the Patriots that are enamored with JJ McCarthy. So I think that people are just trying to figure out where to put JJ McCarthy. Like, obviously he's a guy that's going to go a little bit higher than maybe we thought a couple months ago. He's going to probably go in the top half of the first round, But is it going to be as early as two or three or are we more talking about in that mac Jones? Can he Pickett range in the teens? I would just say that proceed with caution this time of year. This time last year, Will Levis was a top ten pick. In twenty twenty one, Mac Jones was a San Francisco forty nine er at number three overall. Then we get to the draft and they end up finding their level and they end up going in a more comfortable range for their skill set. I think that there's a lot to like about JJ McCarthy in terms of the talent and just the ball of clay that he is. You know, he does have the ability, like Paul said, to move get outside the pocket. He's elusive in the pocket, put down a fantastic three cone times. So he's got that agility and that jitterbugness about him in the pocket. And he's got a plus arm. I wouldn't say it's an elite arm, but it's a better than average NFL arm as well, So you have some things to work with. But there's a lot of things I think in his game that needs seasoning, a post snap decision making probably being the biggest one, but also accuracy in terms of ball placement down the field too. So I'm not a JJ McCarthy guy. Everybody knows that, but I'm trying to open my mind and not be as critical about it because clearly there are people in the league that have a lot of love for him.

McCarthy not at all.

McCarthy not at all.

I think it's smoke screen season, and I think it's a very risky pick to take him. I don't think he's better than the other three guys. I think it's risky to take him at three, and I think it's gonna be pretty funy when it just goes Caleb, Jaden, Drake and it is boring, but sometimes it's what has to happen.

I think it's smoke screen season, and I think it's a very risky pick to take him. I don't think he's better than the other three guys. I think it's risky to take him at three, and I think it's gonna be pretty funy when it just goes Caleb, Jaden, Drake and it is boring, but sometimes it's what has to happen.

So that's how I wanted to go. And you know, I put out my latest mock draft, So yeah, Drake May my guy. You know, I'd love them to go with him. And we've got coming up next here on Draft Countdown, we have a full film segment where Evan breaks down Drake May as well, just like he did with McCarthy. So, guys, let's just kind of hash out these two a little bit right now, because it's like the more things change, the more they say the same Paul, you said a couple of shows ago, you know, on Unfiltered, we've been talking about the same stuff. Ultimately, does it just kind of still boil down to date Daniels or May? I think it does.

So that's how I wanted to go. And you know, I put out my latest mock draft, So yeah, Drake May my guy. You know, I'd love them to go with him. And we've got coming up next here on Draft Countdown, we have a full film segment where Evan breaks down Drake May as well, just like he did with McCarthy. So, guys, let's just kind of hash out these two a little bit right now, because it's like the more things change, the more they say the same Paul, you said a couple of shows ago, you know, on Unfiltered, we've been talking about the same stuff. Ultimately, does it just kind of still boil down to date Daniels or May? I think it does.

And I think that particular thing I think boils down to your particular taste and I think that there's a lot to like about both guys. And that's why I said some nice things about McCarthy too, because Evan's right, just because we don't necessarily look at McCarthy in that light doesn't mean he doesn't deserve to be talked about.

And I think that particular thing I think boils down to your particular taste and I think that there's a lot to like about both guys. And that's why I said some nice things about McCarthy too, because Evan's right, just because we don't necessarily look at McCarthy in that light doesn't mean he doesn't deserve to be talked about.

You know, like that.

You know, like that.

So I like the idea of May because I just feel like there's so much upside there. Now you can make an argument that, you know, the opposite is not what you're looking for. If it doesn't wor work out, you don't really have much to fall back on. I just feel like he had to do a lot of things for that team last year, and I want that. I want a guy who sort of had to be the guy and how to have it all on his shoulders. And you know, I don't think it was great. But when you're talking about, you know, well he failed, well what was North Carolina last year, like like eight and four or something like. It's not like they went, you know, two and twelve. You know, when when it was all on his shoulders, he still won some games, didn't win as many as a lot of people thought he might, So you know that's how it worked.

So I like the idea of May because I just feel like there's so much upside there. Now you can make an argument that, you know, the opposite is not what you're looking for. If it doesn't wor work out, you don't really have much to fall back on. I just feel like he had to do a lot of things for that team last year, and I want that. I want a guy who sort of had to be the guy and how to have it all on his shoulders. And you know, I don't think it was great. But when you're talking about, you know, well he failed, well what was North Carolina last year, like like eight and four or something like. It's not like they went, you know, two and twelve. You know, when when it was all on his shoulders, he still won some games, didn't win as many as a lot of people thought he might, So you know that's how it worked.

I like May.

I like May.

I think a lot of them, but certainly I understand the upside with with Daniels too. I know evan't got a chance to see him both up close and personal.

I think a lot of them, but certainly I understand the upside with with Daniels too. I know evan't got a chance to see him both up close and personal.

But yeah, we'll talk about the Pro days. You were down there, Yeah, Tour of the South, So yeah, right, it was a fun time.

But yeah, we'll talk about the Pro days. You were down there, Yeah, Tour of the South, So yeah, right, it was a fun time.

I think the biggest thing with Jaden Daniels is that you are really banking on his athleticism and his running ability being his superpower. Because what I saw from him throwing the football was okay. I wasn't blown away, though. I didn't look at him and say, Wow, this arm talent is just fantastic. He's got a really big arm and he can kind of just flick the wrists and generate velocity and this that the other thing. I kind of felt like it was an NFL arm We go out to training camp and stuff like that, and we see guys throw all the time, and I didn't look at his arm talent and sit there and say, this is so much better than Mac Jones or this is so much better than Bailey ZAPPI maybe a little bit more control on the ball than those guys at times, but not blown away. Whereas with Drake May he just has a handcannon. I mean that guy off platform, off one leg, rolling to his left, rolling to his right, It doesn't make a difference. He can just flick at sixty five yards in the air. And I was standing right there when he dropped it in to tes Walker on the sideline sixty five yards on a dime too, and I was just like, man, this is just that's different. That's a different trait. And if you were looking, if you still are of the of the mind that you need to win with your arm in this league, and eventually all of the running and off platform stuff is all great, well and good, But the person that's gonna sit in the pocket and be able to pick a part of defense is the guy that's gonna hold the trophy at the end of the day. I just look at Drake May and think that that is an easier path for him to get to that point. With Daniels, I think you're really counting on the whole package, the running ability, the arm and it all coming together at this level for that ability to go on a season like he had last year at LSU.

I think the biggest thing with Jaden Daniels is that you are really banking on his athleticism and his running ability being his superpower. Because what I saw from him throwing the football was okay. I wasn't blown away, though. I didn't look at him and say, Wow, this arm talent is just fantastic. He's got a really big arm and he can kind of just flick the wrists and generate velocity and this that the other thing. I kind of felt like it was an NFL arm We go out to training camp and stuff like that, and we see guys throw all the time, and I didn't look at his arm talent and sit there and say, this is so much better than Mac Jones or this is so much better than Bailey ZAPPI maybe a little bit more control on the ball than those guys at times, but not blown away. Whereas with Drake May he just has a handcannon. I mean that guy off platform, off one leg, rolling to his left, rolling to his right, It doesn't make a difference. He can just flick at sixty five yards in the air. And I was standing right there when he dropped it in to tes Walker on the sideline sixty five yards on a dime too, and I was just like, man, this is just that's different. That's a different trait. And if you were looking, if you still are of the of the mind that you need to win with your arm in this league, and eventually all of the running and off platform stuff is all great, well and good, But the person that's gonna sit in the pocket and be able to pick a part of defense is the guy that's gonna hold the trophy at the end of the day. I just look at Drake May and think that that is an easier path for him to get to that point. With Daniels, I think you're really counting on the whole package, the running ability, the arm and it all coming together at this level for that ability to go on a season like he had last year at LSU.

First, I want to hear more about Tess Walker, but I think Jaden Daniels, I don't think we're ready for him. I think I know Evan's mentioned this before, he had Malik Neighbors, he had Brian Thomas, Like, I think he needs a bit more structure, and I think, honestly, the Commanders have a more set offense right now for him than the Pats would. And Drake May, just as I said, you can sin for a while. He has the traits, he has an absolute cannon. So I think May's the guy and I really hope he ends up here.

First, I want to hear more about Tess Walker, but I think Jaden Daniels, I don't think we're ready for him. I think I know Evan's mentioned this before, he had Malik Neighbors, he had Brian Thomas, Like, I think he needs a bit more structure, and I think, honestly, the Commanders have a more set offense right now for him than the Pats would. And Drake May, just as I said, you can sin for a while. He has the traits, he has an absolute cannon. So I think May's the guy and I really hope he ends up here.

Yeah, when it comes to elevator the players around them, I think that Jayden Daniels could distribute the ball to good receivers no problem. But when it comes to actually taking that an offense that maybe doesn't have great receivers yet and elevating it to be on what it is, I just think Drake May brings more to the table in that respect.

Yeah, when it comes to elevator the players around them, I think that Jayden Daniels could distribute the ball to good receivers no problem. But when it comes to actually taking that an offense that maybe doesn't have great receivers yet and elevating it to be on what it is, I just think Drake May brings more to the table in that respect.

All Right, we're here now talking the defensive front seven guys. We're gonna include three different position groups here, because let's face it, the Patriots need offense, and I would make an argument that they need some front seven help in the not too distant future, but for this year, just running down real quick, I mean Lawrence guy departed. However, they did sign arm On Watts kind of could fill that position. You got ke On White from last year stepping up there, but otherwise it's kind of the same front we know the year Christian Barmore had daniel Lequallee a rotational piece coming back at linebacker. You got Bentley and Tavani Tavai Sioni Taki Taki comes in, Rayquo McMillan coming back from an injury. I'm just listening all these guys off to show some of the depth. The one position I do think is a concern though, is along the edge, and so it's not impossible to see them going in that position early on. But I'd like to just start with like the four top guys I think of that group, which is Jared Verse, Chop Robinson, Dallas Turner and lie To Latsu. Four guys who all really fit kind of the Patriots prototype. Along the edge. We could potentially make, you know, a good three down rotational piece alongside Matthew Judon, josh Ucha, Anthony Jenning. Still feels like they were a little light there, but tis they're probably not gonna be able to take one of those guys.

All Right, we're here now talking the defensive front seven guys. We're gonna include three different position groups here, because let's face it, the Patriots need offense, and I would make an argument that they need some front seven help in the not too distant future, but for this year, just running down real quick, I mean Lawrence guy departed. However, they did sign arm On Watts kind of could fill that position. You got ke On White from last year stepping up there, but otherwise it's kind of the same front we know the year Christian Barmore had daniel Lequallee a rotational piece coming back at linebacker. You got Bentley and Tavani Tavai Sioni Taki Taki comes in, Rayquo McMillan coming back from an injury. I'm just listening all these guys off to show some of the depth. The one position I do think is a concern though, is along the edge, and so it's not impossible to see them going in that position early on. But I'd like to just start with like the four top guys I think of that group, which is Jared Verse, Chop Robinson, Dallas Turner and lie To Latsu. Four guys who all really fit kind of the Patriots prototype. Along the edge. We could potentially make, you know, a good three down rotational piece alongside Matthew Judon, josh Ucha, Anthony Jenning. Still feels like they were a little light there, but tis they're probably not gonna be able to take one of those guys.

Yeah, I'm kind of looking at this like we talked about the DBS. I hope we don't take somebody at the defensive front seven before the fourth. But Jared Verse, I mean we saw him Indianapolis that kill Roy shout out to their bread sticks. But that guy is a unit and it's I said it earlier. It's just it's a shame that we had such a tough year because he would love to see these guys on the Patriots, but we just this isn't what we need right now. So but Jared Verse to the top of the crop right there.

Yeah, I'm kind of looking at this like we talked about the DBS. I hope we don't take somebody at the defensive front seven before the fourth. But Jared Verse, I mean we saw him Indianapolis that kill Roy shout out to their bread sticks. But that guy is a unit and it's I said it earlier. It's just it's a shame that we had such a tough year because he would love to see these guys on the Patriots, but we just this isn't what we need right now. So but Jared Verse to the top of the crop right there.

For me, He's actually one that I'm really high on and I love his story, you know, coming from a lower level, you know, out of nowhere from Albany and you know, being just a star at a level like Florida State. So I agree with tis really like the player. Don't really see much of a chance of the Patriots being in position now. Maybe if you're talking about trading down in some of the dominoes that you kind of traded down with an eye on don't fall into place. I think that's a guy that he screened Patriot when you watch him, But again, I think very very little to no chance.

For me, He's actually one that I'm really high on and I love his story, you know, coming from a lower level, you know, out of nowhere from Albany and you know, being just a star at a level like Florida State. So I agree with tis really like the player. Don't really see much of a chance of the Patriots being in position now. Maybe if you're talking about trading down in some of the dominoes that you kind of traded down with an eye on don't fall into place. I think that's a guy that he screened Patriot when you watch him, But again, I think very very little to no chance.

Yeah, I felt like Dallas Turner two, Alabama guy. I mean another one that would easily fit lot to the guys who have good stories. I mean, seemed like his career was going to end the neck injury, comes back, very athletic, very long.

Yeah, I felt like Dallas Turner two, Alabama guy. I mean another one that would easily fit lot to the guys who have good stories. I mean, seemed like his career was going to end the neck injury, comes back, very athletic, very long.

Lot two is one of my favorite guys because I don't watch a ton of games, but I'm watching. I'm watching the CLA game and this guy a lot too is. I think it might have been against USC and he made a couple of plays like back to back. I'm like, oh, I'm going to keep that guy in mind. Yeah, Like two minutes later the guy goes, no, he's gonna be a top fifteen pick. That's why I'm like nothing that's by Paul.

Lot two is one of my favorite guys because I don't watch a ton of games, but I'm watching. I'm watching the CLA game and this guy a lot too is. I think it might have been against USC and he made a couple of plays like back to back. I'm like, oh, I'm going to keep that guy in mind. Yeah, Like two minutes later the guy goes, no, he's gonna be a top fifteen pick. That's why I'm like nothing that's by Paul.

He's your prototypical edge rusher. I mean thirteen sacks in the season, just absolutely dominated this year to UCLA and I mean not a free to catch the football. Two interceptions on the season as well. But he's a guy that is going to set the edge when you need him to. Same with Jared Verus, like easily, in my opinion, the two top guys in that draft. Yeah, that you could slide from.

He's your prototypical edge rusher. I mean thirteen sacks in the season, just absolutely dominated this year to UCLA and I mean not a free to catch the football. Two interceptions on the season as well. But he's a guy that is going to set the edge when you need him to. Same with Jared Verus, like easily, in my opinion, the two top guys in that draft. Yeah, that you could slide from.

That's what they need like, you know, I think they. I mean it's just it's an underrated need and that's why I like if the were to happen early, I wouldn't totally hate it. The other guy I'll just mention is Darius Robinson from Zoo. Watched him during Senior Bowl practices. I mean, he is I just wrote he's a handful. I mean wherever he lines up, he can play a number of different spots. I don't know if he's going to make it out of the first round, but he's another one who maybe not quite in that upper tier, but if he were to slip, I could maybe consider it there in the second round. Yeah.

That's what they need like, you know, I think they. I mean it's just it's an underrated need and that's why I like if the were to happen early, I wouldn't totally hate it. The other guy I'll just mention is Darius Robinson from Zoo. Watched him during Senior Bowl practices. I mean, he is I just wrote he's a handful. I mean wherever he lines up, he can play a number of different spots. I don't know if he's going to make it out of the first round, but he's another one who maybe not quite in that upper tier, but if he were to slip, I could maybe consider it there in the second round. Yeah.

No, he's great, honestly, always in the backfield, just always, just his presence is felt. And fourteen tackle for loss in the season led the team, so it's it's a great number.

No, he's great, honestly, always in the backfield, just always, just his presence is felt. And fourteen tackle for loss in the season led the team, so it's it's a great number.

So just before we move on from the edge guys, I'm curious what you think in terms of the style of edge player if the Patriots again, I think we all agree we're talking day three yep. Yeah, because I think that you know the needs are there, but would you want to you know, a bigger edge guy, maybe you know Anthony Jennings, physical edge setter or would you want maybe a smaller two fifty you know, pass rusher.

So just before we move on from the edge guys, I'm curious what you think in terms of the style of edge player if the Patriots again, I think we all agree we're talking day three yep. Yeah, because I think that you know the needs are there, but would you want to you know, a bigger edge guy, maybe you know Anthony Jennings, physical edge setter or would you want maybe a smaller two fifty you know, pass rusher.

A great question, Paul, I mean I love that you kind of you kind of set me up because I have, you know, two later around options. I think the cover kind of both those options.

A great question, Paul, I mean I love that you kind of you kind of set me up because I have, you know, two later around options. I think the cover kind of both those options.

Uh.

Uh.

You know, Nelson Caesar is one who's kind of been on my radar for a little bit. He's kind of more that prototypical, has the power, you know as a captain, but you know, more like kind of the edge setter type, maybe need some work on the pass rush. It's a little bit more Jennings than Uce. But then Jalen Harrell from Michigan, I mean everybody watched Michigan's defense this year. He's another one who you know, kind of reminds me of Uce a little bit. Maybe not quite so specific to being a pass rusher, a designated pass rusher like Uch is with his you know o J speed around the edge. But I just was really impressed with kind of Harold's athleticism. He's kind of shifty, you know, he can kind of beat guys and make guys miss.

You know, Nelson Caesar is one who's kind of been on my radar for a little bit. He's kind of more that prototypical, has the power, you know as a captain, but you know, more like kind of the edge setter type, maybe need some work on the pass rush. It's a little bit more Jennings than Uce. But then Jalen Harrell from Michigan, I mean everybody watched Michigan's defense this year. He's another one who you know, kind of reminds me of Uce a little bit. Maybe not quite so specific to being a pass rusher, a designated pass rusher like Uch is with his you know o J speed around the edge. But I just was really impressed with kind of Harold's athleticism. He's kind of shifty, you know, he can kind of beat guys and make guys miss.

If you're taking to edge rusher, I want to get after the quarterback. That's why I like Mohammed Kamara Colorado State. I don't know if you guys watched the one in Colorado game. Everybody watched Kara safers the Colorado but he's a beast, just gets back. They're very violent and aggressive off the line. He had thirty and a half career sacks, five forrest fumbles, forty five and a half tackles for loss and that's kind of what I want there. And I think if you're taking an edge rusher as the Patriots, you know we have Judon Anthony Jennings uch is you're really going to develop and the hope they hit their stride next so you don't really need a day one starter.

If you're taking to edge rusher, I want to get after the quarterback. That's why I like Mohammed Kamara Colorado State. I don't know if you guys watched the one in Colorado game. Everybody watched Kara safers the Colorado but he's a beast, just gets back. They're very violent and aggressive off the line. He had thirty and a half career sacks, five forrest fumbles, forty five and a half tackles for loss and that's kind of what I want there. And I think if you're taking an edge rusher as the Patriots, you know we have Judon Anthony Jennings uch is you're really going to develop and the hope they hit their stride next so you don't really need a day one starter.

So that's my thought there.

So that's my thought there.

Yeah, I think the Pageers retaining Uch shows that they feel they have a little bit more in him, especially at the edge role. Obviously fell off a little bit this season, but I think they're expecting him to get back to where he was in twenty twenty two. I think that's a huge step that he'll need to take heading into this season to really see if he's worth what the Patriots are looking for.

Yeah, I think the Pageers retaining Uch shows that they feel they have a little bit more in him, especially at the edge role. Obviously fell off a little bit this season, but I think they're expecting him to get back to where he was in twenty twenty two. I think that's a huge step that he'll need to take heading into this season to really see if he's worth what the Patriots are looking for.

The j I was gonna say, I know, you want to talk about the big guys inside Mike Special. But one thing to keep in mind for this discussion is Judon specifically because last year of his deal. I do think, you know, I'm not telling you he's getting traded tomorrow, but it wouldn't you know, it wouldn't be overly surprising to me. And then all of a sudden you pick up maybe a second or third round pick and you replace him with a young pass rush like that wouldn't be out of the rama.

The j I was gonna say, I know, you want to talk about the big guys inside Mike Special. But one thing to keep in mind for this discussion is Judon specifically because last year of his deal. I do think, you know, I'm not telling you he's getting traded tomorrow, but it wouldn't you know, it wouldn't be overly surprising to me. And then all of a sudden you pick up maybe a second or third round pick and you replace him with a young pass rush like that wouldn't be out of the rama.

Possibility, Like I'd throw Chris Braswell from another guy at Senior Bowl, similar kind of thing, you know, but more of a pass rusher. But Bama, you know, yeah, I love those Bama guys, and I mean that's you know, but I think, just to go back to your question, Paul, I mean I really think they they really need to find a three down guy. I mean, I don't think, you know, you want to go into the season thinking like, oh god, you know Jenning's out there first second and get him off Oocha's in. Like it's just you'd love to find a three down guy that can kind of do it all. And you know, maybe you draft somebody this year like that, you know, not like a Caesar that you can kind of develop and allow him to grow into that. But before we get to down into the you know, the big guys inside, I just wanted to, you know, highlight Peyton Wilson from NC State, who he ran a four foot three at the combine, which is like, you know, he's like six two to forty, I mean, absolutely flying. Just a lot of injury concerns with him. I think the Patriots are probably mostly set inside right now, but he's one guy if you wanted to kind of evolve a little bit, add a little bit more speed on the second level. Again, probably gonna go too high from when they're gonna take him if they believe he can stay healthy, but could fit.

Possibility, Like I'd throw Chris Braswell from another guy at Senior Bowl, similar kind of thing, you know, but more of a pass rusher. But Bama, you know, yeah, I love those Bama guys, and I mean that's you know, but I think, just to go back to your question, Paul, I mean I really think they they really need to find a three down guy. I mean, I don't think, you know, you want to go into the season thinking like, oh god, you know Jenning's out there first second and get him off Oocha's in. Like it's just you'd love to find a three down guy that can kind of do it all. And you know, maybe you draft somebody this year like that, you know, not like a Caesar that you can kind of develop and allow him to grow into that. But before we get to down into the you know, the big guys inside, I just wanted to, you know, highlight Peyton Wilson from NC State, who he ran a four foot three at the combine, which is like, you know, he's like six two to forty, I mean, absolutely flying. Just a lot of injury concerns with him. I think the Patriots are probably mostly set inside right now, but he's one guy if you wanted to kind of evolve a little bit, add a little bit more speed on the second level. Again, probably gonna go too high from when they're gonna take him if they believe he can stay healthy, but could fit.

I got another guy which might be the pat sweet spot kind of maybe fourth round Cedric Gray from UNC. Bit of an outside linebacker, also play him on the edge, but that he kind of is like a Jennings to me, like, you know, develop him works out great. If not, like you know, you give him some time. So that's a that's a guy I'd look out for. Also UNC, you know Mat Drake may I know each other?

I got another guy which might be the pat sweet spot kind of maybe fourth round Cedric Gray from UNC. Bit of an outside linebacker, also play him on the edge, but that he kind of is like a Jennings to me, like, you know, develop him works out great. If not, like you know, you give him some time. So that's a that's a guy I'd look out for. Also UNC, you know Mat Drake may I know each other?

That doesn't work, Chris, you got any you got any off the ball linebacker types? Or should be moving onto the defensive late I d ls as we like to call them.

That doesn't work, Chris, you got any you got any off the ball linebacker types? Or should be moving onto the defensive late I d ls as we like to call them.

I have a couple of the d ls in there.

I have a couple of the d ls in there.

Yeah, I will tee us up with the biggest of them all too.

Yeah, I will tee us up with the biggest of them all too.

So all right, Braden Fisk out of Florida's I mean just an absolute dog. We were watching him at the combine, just our mouths fellow the floor when we saw his speed. Uh in that forty yard dash of his. But he's a guy. I mean forty three tackle is the true run stuffer. But also you can get to the quarterback. He's quick. I mean if he gets his hands inside you, I mean it's game over.

So all right, Braden Fisk out of Florida's I mean just an absolute dog. We were watching him at the combine, just our mouths fellow the floor when we saw his speed. Uh in that forty yard dash of his. But he's a guy. I mean forty three tackle is the true run stuffer. But also you can get to the quarterback. He's quick. I mean if he gets his hands inside you, I mean it's game over.

You lost that battle.

You lost that battle.

So I mean.

So I mean.

Aggressive, I mean just he's I forget what with what the word I wrote, but he just I mean he's a dog. You just tell like he's he's gonna come in, he's gonna play hard. But I thought you were gonna go with Tovandre Sweat. It's just big. That's a big dude. He can move it in the sor bawl. I mean just a big guy. Maybe a lot of players in the point when.

Aggressive, I mean just he's I forget what with what the word I wrote, but he just I mean he's a dog. You just tell like he's he's gonna come in, he's gonna play hard. But I thought you were gonna go with Tovandre Sweat. It's just big. That's a big dude. He can move it in the sor bawl. I mean just a big guy. Maybe a lot of players in the point when.

You're at a five to five point two or something, which guy that size is absurd.

You're at a five to five point two or something, which guy that size is absurd.

It's like mass equals four times acceleration. They're like, oh my god. But he's you know again like Godshaw, you know, bar Moore is more of a kind of penetrator type, like you know, te Trick Whise. You know, is is he the right fit or you you know, are you maybe you know, considering key On White to be in that role. So it's just I could see, you know, and Sweat's gonna go to but he kind of needs some of those space eaters. That's those kind of two gap guys. I do have some other ones though later on. But Paul, you you mentioned Sweat great in the playoffs.

It's like mass equals four times acceleration. They're like, oh my god. But he's you know again like Godshaw, you know, bar Moore is more of a kind of penetrator type, like you know, te Trick Whise. You know, is is he the right fit or you you know, are you maybe you know, considering key On White to be in that role. So it's just I could see, you know, and Sweat's gonna go to but he kind of needs some of those space eaters. That's those kind of two gap guys. I do have some other ones though later on. But Paul, you you mentioned Sweat great in the playoffs.

Yeah, no, He's made a lot of plays. He was a big part of that disruptive front. They weren't great defensively as a team, and obviously Washington had their way with him in that game. But I do think he showed up in most of the games. I watched Chris Jenkins, another kid from Michigan. We talked about in some of earlier shows about the kids of pros, and we didn't talk on the off ball linebackers of Jeremiah Trotter. Same kind of thing, you know, good blood lines. I'm always intrigued by those guys, especially when they play similar you know, positions, so obviously, you know, we talk about it at the high profile with Marvin Harrison. Chris Jenkins's dad was a tremendous All Pro caliber interior defensive lineman. So I don't know where he's gonna fall. He's probably Day two rather than day three, so he's probably out of the Patriots range. But another guy to keep an eye on.

Yeah, no, He's made a lot of plays. He was a big part of that disruptive front. They weren't great defensively as a team, and obviously Washington had their way with him in that game. But I do think he showed up in most of the games. I watched Chris Jenkins, another kid from Michigan. We talked about in some of earlier shows about the kids of pros, and we didn't talk on the off ball linebackers of Jeremiah Trotter. Same kind of thing, you know, good blood lines. I'm always intrigued by those guys, especially when they play similar you know, positions, so obviously, you know, we talk about it at the high profile with Marvin Harrison. Chris Jenkins's dad was a tremendous All Pro caliber interior defensive lineman. So I don't know where he's gonna fall. He's probably Day two rather than day three, so he's probably out of the Patriots range. But another guy to keep an eye on.

I had a Row Row Row got that right, I actually did. I can already hear the fans going rude. He's really he's a big boy. It really takes up space for the linebackers, free them up. I just think, like, once again, this isn't a glaring need for the Patriots, but this could be a fun developmental prospect. And he's he might go a little too high. I also had Leonard Taylor, third LT. Three from Miami, another big guy, works hard and if he's a later round guy, you know, just take him, why.

I had a Row Row Row got that right, I actually did. I can already hear the fans going rude. He's really he's a big boy. It really takes up space for the linebackers, free them up. I just think, like, once again, this isn't a glaring need for the Patriots, but this could be a fun developmental prospect. And he's he might go a little too high. I also had Leonard Taylor, third LT. Three from Miami, another big guy, works hard and if he's a later round guy, you know, just take him, why.

Not, and not to cut you off, but just going in. I mean Mason Smith, another big interior guy, and we talked about a little bit earlier, but six five, three hundred and six pounds, like another big fellow. But he's quick. Yeah, five oh one forty yard dash. I mean that's impressive and something you can be agile when you need him to be. Uh so again another run stuffer there for.

Not, and not to cut you off, but just going in. I mean Mason Smith, another big interior guy, and we talked about a little bit earlier, but six five, three hundred and six pounds, like another big fellow. But he's quick. Yeah, five oh one forty yard dash. I mean that's impressive and something you can be agile when you need him to be. Uh so again another run stuffer there for.

Another kind of tototypical three four D end and that's you know, kind of what I was looking at with some of these guys is day three two gappers And it's not sexy, it's you know, it's it's these you know, big guys that aren't gonna do a lot. They're probably going to be just the first two downs. But I think when you look at the Patriots defense and some structure, this is you know what they want. They want a couple guys inside that can take up multiple blockers. You mentioned Smith, I'd also say Jordan Jefferson from US you who probably more of a penetrator and you know, more of that bar More type. But that's kind of where I get confused. And yet, you know, you had a good question Paul about just what are you looking for on the edge, and it's you know, it's still how are they going to evolve? I think you always need both those two gapper tites, but you need guys like Jefferson too, who have some speed like Barmore and can penetrate and can affect the quarterback just specifically.

Another kind of tototypical three four D end and that's you know, kind of what I was looking at with some of these guys is day three two gappers And it's not sexy, it's you know, it's it's these you know, big guys that aren't gonna do a lot. They're probably going to be just the first two downs. But I think when you look at the Patriots defense and some structure, this is you know what they want. They want a couple guys inside that can take up multiple blockers. You mentioned Smith, I'd also say Jordan Jefferson from US you who probably more of a penetrator and you know, more of that bar More type. But that's kind of where I get confused. And yet, you know, you had a good question Paul about just what are you looking for on the edge, and it's you know, it's still how are they going to evolve? I think you always need both those two gapper tites, but you need guys like Jefferson too, who have some speed like Barmore and can penetrate and can affect the quarterback just specifically.

I'd be curious to see how the Patriots feel about it. Is that going to change, you know, what they're actually looking for with with Bill Gohn and you know, just maybe Girod try to put some of an imprint of his own on this or is it just kind of stick to the system the way the way it is run.

I'd be curious to see how the Patriots feel about it. Is that going to change, you know, what they're actually looking for with with Bill Gohn and you know, just maybe Girod try to put some of an imprint of his own on this or is it just kind of stick to the system the way the way it is run.

Kind of covering all their bases, you know, like we got penetrators, we got two gappers, we got run stopping as you know, it's hard to have that like amount of players and then have to like.

Kind of covering all their bases, you know, like we got penetrators, we got two gappers, we got run stopping as you know, it's hard to have that like amount of players and then have to like.

Yeah, Bill always seemed to be reluctant to sacrifice size and physicality on the edge for pure rushing. So be like I said, be curious to see if Gerad feels the same, or if he decides to go after some of these two hundred and forty pound edge guys. Yeah, that probably aren't going to hold up against the run bike, you know, Anthony Jennings is you know, but maybe you get a little more explosiveness out there.

Yeah, Bill always seemed to be reluctant to sacrifice size and physicality on the edge for pure rushing. So be like I said, be curious to see if Gerad feels the same, or if he decides to go after some of these two hundred and forty pound edge guys. Yeah, that probably aren't going to hold up against the run bike, you know, Anthony Jennings is you know, but maybe you get a little more explosiveness out there.

I think the Patriots also have like the age difference between your interior guys. I mean you have the Christian Barmers, who's still kind of young, but then you have Davon Gotchaudis wise like they're getting up there in age, and you want to see which guys can really fit in that type of role, especially if there's going to be some flow there.

I think the Patriots also have like the age difference between your interior guys. I mean you have the Christian Barmers, who's still kind of young, but then you have Davon Gotchaudis wise like they're getting up there in age, and you want to see which guys can really fit in that type of role, especially if there's going to be some flow there.

I think it's it's not twenty twenty five, but after next year, it's like nobody in the front seven center contract and actually it might be an exit next year, so it's like these guys are all coming up, so it's you do have to have a mind for the future. One last name I'll just mentioned Jaden and Cromedy from Mississippi State, another four year starter, big powerful, two gapping, interior day three type guy. I could see that kind of pick making sense, especially if guys, you know, Jeremiah farm Sam Roberts maybe not quite developing. I know we've heard from Elliot Wolf that they want to play these guys a little bit more, so, you know, maybe that that allows them to have some depth with some of these guys you haven't played.

I think it's it's not twenty twenty five, but after next year, it's like nobody in the front seven center contract and actually it might be an exit next year, so it's like these guys are all coming up, so it's you do have to have a mind for the future. One last name I'll just mentioned Jaden and Cromedy from Mississippi State, another four year starter, big powerful, two gapping, interior day three type guy. I could see that kind of pick making sense, especially if guys, you know, Jeremiah farm Sam Roberts maybe not quite developing. I know we've heard from Elliot Wolf that they want to play these guys a little bit more, so, you know, maybe that that allows them to have some depth with some of these guys you haven't played.

He's got to get some he's got to get a prominent role, right, Yeah, your second round pick, year two, it's time.

He's got to get some he's got to get a prominent role, right, Yeah, your second round pick, year two, it's time.

Get him in there. You got anybody.

Get him in there. You got anybody.

Else's I Paul touched them a little. Just Jeremi Trotter. I know he's a linebacker.

Else's I Paul touched them a little. Just Jeremi Trotter. I know he's a linebacker.

I just watched that.

I just watched that.

They don't make linebackers like that anymore. He's wearing number fifty four, just the center green dot guy, and he's gonna go too high for the Pats. But I mean just he's quite a player, so it'd be interesting to see if they did something there.

They don't make linebackers like that anymore. He's wearing number fifty four, just the center green dot guy, and he's gonna go too high for the Pats. But I mean just he's quite a player, so it'd be interesting to see if they did something there.

But all right, well, a lot of options there for the Patriots to consider. We talked about their needs and the depth and all that. So that's going to wrap up the defensive side of the ball. Just a few episodes left, and of course we'll finish off with a full live hour episode wrap up everything we learned here. I know everybody's getting itchy for the draft, so be sure to stick with us here on Patriots Draft Countdown releast every Wednesday,

But all right, well, a lot of options there for the Patriots to consider. We talked about their needs and the depth and all that. So that's going to wrap up the defensive side of the ball. Just a few episodes left, and of course we'll finish off with a full live hour episode wrap up everything we learned here. I know everybody's getting itchy for the draft, so be sure to stick with us here on Patriots Draft Countdown releast every Wednesday,