Drafting an OL in the First Round?
When reading the many mock drafts out there it becomes obvious that 2012 is a strong year for OL, particularly interior linemen. This starts as a warning to be prepared for the disappointment, but this article will also try to rationalize such a decision. Just don't be surprised if Belichick scoops a C/G at #27 and grabs a WR at #31
We will all clamor with disgust and shame, renouncing Belichick for the way that he drafts. We all know that we need help on D. We want to see something to think that we have improved the team. I don't think that Bill feels the Defense is as bad as the fans and media do. The Defense performed well in the playoffs, and I am sure that he was proud of their maturity throughout the season. The D as a unit does not need a major overhaul.
So, if we do not use our first round draft picks on a defensive player, do not despair. How many times have we seen second and third round players come in an make an impact? The draft is an inexact science, and you have to play the game. It is not feasible to "go after" certain players when you are sitting at #27. You have to play the big board as it develops.
You must draft with value in mind. So, the percentage of snaps a player can play is a huge factor when examining him. A dominant, durable OL might play 100% of offensive snaps during a season. A DB might play between 90-95%. An OLB/DE might only play 50-60%. O-Linemen impact every offensive snap, and it is an important position that needs youth and depth. This is especially true when you have to protect Tom Brady.
I fully expect the Patriots to draft a player or two for the defensive side of the ball, but I am not sure if the best value will be on Defense in the first round. Many of the dominant defensive players will come off the board early, and it might be hard to get a guy that is worthy of first round investment.
We know that the needs of the team are as follows: (1) defensive backfield, (2) defensive line, (3) outside WR, (4) offensive line. I just doubt that these needs will be addressed in this order. Just be prepared to be baffled by the draft. Nevertheless, expect the players that are drafted to make a big impact on the 2012 squad.
We will all clamor with disgust and shame, renouncing Belichick for the way that he drafts. We all know that we need help on D. We want to see something to think that we have improved the team. I don't think that Bill feels the Defense is as bad as the fans and media do. The Defense performed well in the playoffs, and I am sure that he was proud of their maturity throughout the season. The D as a unit does not need a major overhaul.
So, if we do not use our first round draft picks on a defensive player, do not despair. How many times have we seen second and third round players come in an make an impact? The draft is an inexact science, and you have to play the game. It is not feasible to "go after" certain players when you are sitting at #27. You have to play the big board as it develops.
You must draft with value in mind. So, the percentage of snaps a player can play is a huge factor when examining him. A dominant, durable OL might play 100% of offensive snaps during a season. A DB might play between 90-95%. An OLB/DE might only play 50-60%. O-Linemen impact every offensive snap, and it is an important position that needs youth and depth. This is especially true when you have to protect Tom Brady.
I fully expect the Patriots to draft a player or two for the defensive side of the ball, but I am not sure if the best value will be on Defense in the first round. Many of the dominant defensive players will come off the board early, and it might be hard to get a guy that is worthy of first round investment.
We know that the needs of the team are as follows: (1) defensive backfield, (2) defensive line, (3) outside WR, (4) offensive line. I just doubt that these needs will be addressed in this order. Just be prepared to be baffled by the draft. Nevertheless, expect the players that are drafted to make a big impact on the 2012 squad.
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