2022 NFL Mock Draft: Mel Kiper Jr. predicts Patriots take star LB in Round 1 originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
It’s no surprise that experts are consistently predicting the New England Patriots will select a linebacker with the No. 21 pick in the first round of the 2022 NFL Draft.
Linebacker, even after a month of the offseason, remains one of the biggest areas of weakness on New England’s roster.
Kyle Van Noy was released last month. Jamie Collins and Dont’a Hightower haven’t yet been re-signed. Ja’Whaun Bentley was brought back on a two-year contract, but the Patriots still haven’t made any significant additions to the linebacker depth chart.
2022 NFL Mock Draft roundup: Experts predict Patriots go defense in first round
It’s quite possible that changes come draft time, given the Patriots’ lack of talent, athleticism and depth at the position.
ESPN expert Mel Kiper Jr. released his latest 2022 NFL mock draft Wednesday morning, and he projects the Patriots selecting Utah…