The best fits for the Patriots in the 2026 NFL Draft: Using ‘The Beast’ to find targets
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Patriots are expected to focus on specific needs in the 2026 NFL Draft, targeting players who fit their scheme rather than drafting from a large pool of prospects.
- Edge rusher Mason Thomas (Oklahoma) is a likely first-round target (No. 31), offering a smaller, speedier complement to the Patriots' current run-stopping edge players.
- Tight end Eli Stowers (Vanderbilt) could be a Day 2 pick to provide a reliable pass-catching threat, complementing blocking tight end Julian Hill and veteran Hunter Henry.
- Offensive tackle Travis Burke (Memphis) is a potential mid-round developmental swing tackle with ideal size and length to eventually replace a starter.
- Defensive tackle Nick Barrett (South Carolina) and linebacker Aiden Fisher (Indiana) are middle-round candidates to add depth, focusing on run-stopping and special teams contributions.
