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New Patriots Research Paper

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The New England Patriots once again had a busy NFL Draft, which included multiple draft pick trades, and preemptive moves that moved their draft picks around. At the end of the day, the team picked four players in the draft, while also acquiring tight end James O'Shaughnessy from the Kansas City Chiefs. Over the years, head coach Bill Belichick has done very well, when it comes to drafting in the later rounds. This year was no different as he was able to address both the offensive and defensive lines. Let's take a look at what each pick will bring to the team. 3rd round (83rd overall) - Derek Rivers, DE, Youngstown State: Rivers is a 6'4" defensive end/linebacker hybrid who excelled in the FCS under head coach Bo Pelini. A late bloomer, Rivers made a huge jump his junior year, before dominating the FCS this past season as a senior opposite Avery Moss, a fifth round draft pick of the New York Giants. In his senior season, Rivers finished with 58 total tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 14 sacks. Perhaps his greatest strength is his versatility in rushing the passer. Rivers fills the prototypical Patriots' hybrid pass rusher that players like Rob Ninkovich and Trey Flowers have dominated in. Rivers will compete with Geneo Grissom, Lawrence Guy and fellow draft pick Deatrich Wise for playing time in a backup role. …show more content…

There are a lot of things to like when it comes to Garcia, including his quick feet and tremendous athleticism. However, he is a work in progress, and needs to cut down on penalties in order to have a big role with the Patriots. Garcia could conceivably beat out players like LaAdrian Waddle and Cameron Fleming for playing time, although his left tackle potential would slot him behind Nate Solder. If the little things are corrected, he could be a third round

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