Mel Kiper Projects Patriots’ First-Round Pick In Latest Mock Draft

The New England Patriots are about to play big and they are getting ready for a long offseason. Head coach Bill Belichick made a few moves so far and he won’t stop here. The 2022 NFL Draft will give the Patriots a few great options. Mel Kiper made a prediction on the Patriots and their first-round pick.

The Patriots have a few holes on their roster and getting a promising wide receiver is a must. Julian Edelman announced his retirement last season and the Patriots ended up with a big hole at receiver. Kiper bets on Alabama wide receiver Jameson Williams.

“Unlike last year, the Patriots have been quiet in free agency, notably losing star cornerback J.C. Jackson to a huge-money deal while not adding any surefire starters,” Kiper detailed. “I see holes at right tackle, off-ball linebacker, defensive end, cornerback and wide receiver. They’ve also lost several coaches this offseason, including offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. And yet, Bill Belichick’s Patriots team won 10 games last season and still has a lot of really good players.

“I projected Williams here in my debut mock in mid-January, and it is a nice fit. Williams, who tore his ACL in the national title game, had a tremendous season for the Crimson Tide, with 1,572 yards and 15 scores. He said at the combine that he’s ahead of his schedule in his recovery, but it’s possible he misses a chunk of the season while rehabbing. New England could afford to wait for a receiver with true No. 1 upside who could be a star for years to come. And we know Belichick has a history of taking Alabama stars.”

Mel Kiper bets on great option for the Patriots, supports the pick

Williams could be the right player to join the Patriots. He has great talent and yes, he is a good fit for Belichick’s receiving unit.

Here’s the catch. The Patriots got N’Keal Harry in the first round of the 2019 NFL Draft and it was a bad move. This makes us believe that Belichick won’t waste another first-rounder on a receiver. Harry’s struggles are just too much.

The Patriots relied on their defense in 2021. They have to strengthen their defense even more. Mac Jones is leading the offense and he needs strong weapons.