Bedard: What you need to know about the Patriots' nine Day 3 selections

All the stats, measurables, quotes and film to get you caught up on the two newest Patriots — and Bedard's take on where they fit with the Patriots.

107. C/G Jake Andrews, Troy

6-foot-2.5, 305 pounds, 5.15 40
Age: 23 (Nov. 11)
Arms: 32. Hand: 10. Wingspan: 78. 40: 5.15. 10-yards: 1.77. Vertical: 26. Broad jump: 8-6. Bench: 29.
Started 38 of 52 games — 23 at RG, 15 at C.

Senior Bowl participant

THEY SAID IT

Jake Andrews via Patriots media relations

Q: First and foremost, for the people who aren't familiar with your game. How would you describe your game?

JA: You know, I like to be physical and tough. One thing that we like to say all the time in offensive line and why I have really matured this past year, is being ‘all day tough’ and that's kind of one of the things we always talked about. Pretty much just having that mentality to get ready to work and figure out what I need to bring to the table for New England.

Q: Speaking of offensive line. I know you had some experience with Coach [Cole] Popovich, who was up here in New England for some time. Is that something that came up with the Patriots? Your experience there and how that might have prepared you to transition to New England?

JA: A little bit. There were a few conversations prior to him going to Houston and some obvious connections there. But yes, I think them knowing how much I appreciate Coach Popovich and what he meant to me and what he meant to New England, there's definitely some connection there.

Q: Did you have a chance to talk with the Patriots new offensive line Coach Adrian Klemm throughout the pre-draft process?

JA: Yes, I did. I got to speak to him a little bit. Coach Klemm is an amazing guy and I really enjoyed my time spent with him, getting to learn some things and pick each other’s brain a little bit. It was fun and I am ready to get to work with him.

Q: What do you know about David Andrews? We got an Andrews, Andrews combination here.

JA: Believe it or not, that is my Uncle’s name so yes, it is awesome. He has been there for a long time, played a lot of really good football and I watched him growing up when he was in Georgia, so I am really excited to get to work with him, learn a little bit from him and pick his brain about some pieces of his game.

Q: While being coached by Popovich, how often did he talk to you about the Patriots and how often did you watch Patriots film?

JA: We watched a lot of Patriots film and he talked about them all the time. He used a lot of good examples from a lot of great players that have come through there that he had plenty of time with, which is made examples out of that for us. He gave us insight into what it means to be great you know and what it means to be a Patriot in general. He tried to mold us into that in the best way he could so yes, a lot of experience he tried to implement into us from the Patriots. 

Q: You started as a center at Troy and then you went to guard for a couple of years and then went back to center. I am wondering what that transformation was like and how much did versatility come up when you were talking to the Patriots?

JA: I was always a swing guy. When I got there, I always had to know center even when I had two years as guard, I had to know how to play center, just in case. And then this past year, obviously playing center for the whole entire season, it was really good transition and was something that I wanted to do to show that I was versatile, to show that I could snap the ball and make calls and identify defenses so it was a pretty smooth transition for me, especially with the help of coach Popovich. Like I said, I can't give enough credit to him. He really helped me out a lot.

SCOUTING REPORTS

BSJ's Kevin Field

Another one that we called here at BSJ.

From Senior Bowl write-up.

OC Jake Andrews (Troy): Working off the theory that the Patriots see Andrews/Strange as their short and long-term answer, then a developmental prospect is best. I went with Jake Andrews who is smart, has a wrestling background, has lots of playing experience at all 3 interior spots, and he’ll be available on Day 3.

From iOL preview and called out this morning. I had him Rd6 but if you like the guy it's not a huge deal. Especially since they just had a few guys snagged in front of them last night and Freeland to start the day.

Round 6: OC Jake Andrews, Troy (6-3, 305): Jake Andrews is smart, has a wrestling background, and plays with strong leverage. While he’s a true center, he has playing experience at all 3 interior spots (37 career starts). If you're working off the theory that the Patriots see Andrews/Strange as their short and long-term answer, then a developmental prospect is best (one with true positional versatility is ideal). That said, everything fits for the Patriots and he's a tough kid that you don't want to bet against.

OurLads.com

3.69 Andrews, Jake | Troy

H: 6026 W: 319 40: 5.12 A: 3178 H: 1000 W: 7800

Three-year starter, Millbrook, AL. First-team All-Sun Belt in 2022. Played all three interior line positions over his career, with the majority coming at right guard and center. His physical profile screams the latter. He is a short-armed, stocky player with tremendous lower body strength and flexibility. A constant winner of leverage battles, and the handwork is consistent. Has a tendency to struggle when he needs to show range laterally. The tremendous lower half and balance will always provide a fighting chance for him, though. Squatty body type with natural, ever-present knee bend and ankle flexion keeps him upright and square to his target. Stays on his feet and remains active. Accurate, fast hands that are always inside and can easily re-adjust when needed. Always appears to be under control and ready for recoil. Keeps his head on a swivel, rarely fooled by twists in front of his face. Reaches his points at the second level with proper angles and spacing. Produces high powered impact on the move. Limited reach and speed will hinder his impact against three techniques. Needs to get more depth in pass protection. Has a hard time sustaining proper footwork on an island in pass protection. Will over-commit to initial reads. His lack of length will dampen his margin for error positionally. Has the physical ability to play inside at the next level, but a lack of top end tools will make his margin for error razor thin. OSR:31/37. 6th/7th round.

Dane Brugler

SUMMARY: A three-year starter at Troy, Andrews moved inside to center as a senior in offensive coordinator Joe Craddock's balanced scheme. After starting his sophomore and junior seasons at right guard, he welcomed the transition to center in 2022 because the experience would give him a “mental head start” for the next level. With his bent knees and low pads, Andrews works hard to stay centered and out-grapple the man in front of him mid-mirror. Still relatively new at the pivot, he must correct the mental errors before he is ready for next-level reps. Overall, Andrews’ length limitations and average movement skills will ding his effectiveness as a puncher and sustainer versus NFL linemen, but his natural leverage and stubborn hands give him a fighting chance. Despite his versatile experience, he might be relegated to center-only status by NFL teams.

GRADE: 7th Round

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

From a quick look, he looks like he is more of a center and can play guard if needed. 

Andrews is 31 and his contract is up after 2024. Ferentz is 34 and on a one-year deal. Russey, a 2022 UDFA, can't feel that good about some of these picks. Developmental guy in the pipeline.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

Depends on how they view Russey. I wasn't enamored with him but it appeared that they liked him. I like Andrews' stocky size profile — like that in my centers, helps them anchor — and he seems to have good playing strength. I'm all for upgrading the backup center spot if they didn't love Russey. But this high is a little iffy.

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112. K Chad Ryland, Maryland — Trade up with Jets
5-foot-11.5, 191 pounds

THEY SAID IT

Matt Groh

So to be able to add two of the very top players at their positions in Chad and Bryce to the eam, certainly was an opportunity that we didn't want to pass up on.

Chad Ryland

Q: Just wondering if you know about the Patriots tradition of kickers with with [Adam] Vinatieri, [Stephen] Gostkowski, Nick Folk recently, and if those guys are people that you followed when you were preparing?

CR: Growing up and not being a kicker until late in my high school career, but still being a fan of football, those are all names that I know and I have the utmost respect for. Those guys that have long careers and successful careers like they have, I couldn't speak higher about any of them. I don't even know them, that's the funny part. I don't know any of them personally yet. I'm sure I'll cross paths with them soon. But I have the utmost respect for those guys that kicked in the NFL for 10-plus years. They obviously do a lot of, a lot of things right and are awesome kickers.

Q: What can you tell us about Sidy Sow, a guy that you played with at Eastern Michigan that got drafted after you?

CR: Sidy's my guy. We actually had a FaceTime call together not too long after he got drafted. I think there were a little bit of tears in both of our eyes. It was a pretty emotional moment for us. We've been really, really, really good friend from the time we were both at Eastern Michigan. We're still in a couple of groups chats together. We like to joke back and forth with each other and whatnot. But Sidy is an awesome dude, awesome competitor, super strong, and just overall a really hard worker and great guy.

Q: What was the transition process like for you after spending those four years at Eastern Michigan and then kind of going into a different environment last season?

CR: I think Eastern Michigan really helped me build and develop my ability. Then the University of Maryland gave me the chance to perform on a bigger stage and just show what I can do at the highest level, and that's exactly what I wanted. I can't speak highly enough about Coach [Mike] Lock [Locksley] and literally every single personnel person and teammates I had in that building. They were super supportive of me for being a one-year guy there. They're like my second family now, similar to everyone at Eastern Michigan. But Maryland helped me show what I can do. I think it certainly helped me get to this position along with Eastern Michigan. So I'm super thankful for both places.

Q: I want to ask about your experience with weather conditions. New England lots of famous games just kicking in the cold, the wind, the snow. Obviously got to see a lot of that at Eastern Michigan. How do you feel about kicking in adverse conditions like that? Do you think that your college career set you up for success?

CR: That's a great question. I like that one because I think when you look at cold weather like that, obviously not the most ideal conditions to kick a football and not a lot of people want to kick in that, but I do. I'm a cold weather guy. I like the cold. I like the wind. For me, it's that challenge of bring it on. Obviously, there's a lot that goes into kicking in those conditions. So the challenge of doing that happened to really develop in terms of ball striking, understanding conditions and just everything that comes with it. I love it. Like I don't shy away from it. It certainly has helped me develop into the kicker I am today. So long story short, I guess I'm thankful for adverse conditions like that.

SCOUTING REPORTS

OurLads.com

4.97 Ryland, Chad | Maryland

H: 5113 W: 191 40: 5.00 A: 3018 H: 0938 W: 7318

Four-year starter, Lebanon, PA. Ryland had a solid senior season at Maryland after transferring from Eastern Michigan. Has arguably the best leg in this year’s draft and out-shined Moody when Maryland played Michigan this past season. Has superior leg speed compared to the other top prospects in this year’s draft. His “A” ball on field goals is 65-70 yards. Has had a solid post-season and will need a strong pro day and individual workouts to secure a drafted position. Has the tools to play in the NFL for a long-time if he can find the right situation. 2022 Stats: 39/40 PAT, 19/23 FG, 73-4615 KO, 63.2 avg. 5th/6th round

Bob McGinn

2. CHAD RYLAND, Maryland (5-11 ½, 190, no 40, 6-7): Four-year starter at Eastern Michigan before entering transfer portal and kicking for the Big Ten’s Terrapins in 2022. “Has good leg talent,” one coach said. “He’s been good in clutch situations. Not quite as accurate as Moody’s been. been. He didn’t have his best day at the combine. Just a touch off. At the start of the year I had him above Moody. He’s a real, real confident guy.” Made 77% (75 of 97) in five seasons, including 75.7% at EMU and 82.6% at Maryland. Exceptional long-range statistics: 9-15 from 50-plus, 18-22 from 40-49. “His mental toughness is off the charts,” one scout said. “He (left EMU) because he wanted the freaking money. It’s all about the money today. He’s a starter.” At Maryland, he averaged 64 yards on kickoffs with a 69% touchback rate. “As flaky as he was, he's very likeable,” said a second scout. “I’m just worried about the level of consistency with his accuracy. I don’t think he’ll get drafted but he deserves to sign with somebody and just go into the cycle for kickers. I don’t think he’ll make it in his rookie year. He’ll have to get recycled and come back later.” From Lebanon, Pa.

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

Nick Folk is 38 and in the final year of his deal. Releasing him will save over $1 million on the cap. The job is there for Ryland to win it.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

Obviously trading up in the fourth round is early for a kicker, but if he's damn good, what do I care? He just better not be another Justin Rohrwasser. 

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117. Sidy Sow, G Eastern Michigan

6-foot-4.5, 323 pounds
Age: 24 (June 8)
Arms: 33.4. Hand: 10.5. Wingspan: 81. 40: 5.07. 10-yards: 1.82. Vertical: 32. Broad jump: 9-2. Bench: 27.

Started 55 of 57 games with 44 at LG and 11 at LT.

THEY SAID IT

Sidy Sow

Q: Let me just ask you your general reaction when you got the call from the Patriots. What was it like?

SS: My brain went into scrambles, and I had a hard time understanding what was happening. But I came back quick to reality and understood that one of my biggest dreams was about to be realized.

Q: I want to ask you about the position switch at the beginning of your career at Eastern Michigan. What led you transferring over from the defensive line to the offensive line? And how did you develop such stability and a long track record?

SS: Honestly, my dream was always to play in the NCAA and followed by the NFL. So once I got one opportunity to play in the NCAA, it was all about playing football. When they told me, 'We want you to play offensive lineman,' I said, 'okay.' I dedicated all the ounces of energy that I had and everything I could to be the best I can at my position and fortunately it led me to have a very long career at Eastern, which I'm really happy about. I wouldn't change it for anything in the world. I got to keep this mindset because it is the reason I am here at this point.

Q: We just got a chance to speak with your friend Chad [Ryland]. What should we know about him?

SS: Chad is a stud. He's the best kicker in the nation, and he's going to be one of the best kickers in the NFL. So I'm 100% excited. As a person, I love him. He's a great dude. We've known each other for a while. I still talk to him to this day. We're big Call of Duty partners and it's crazy that once again, teammates.

Q: Can you tell us a little bit about your contact with the Patriots during the draft process, who you spoke with, what they wanted to know about you?

SS: It was like any other team. So I came in at the end of the season. Not a lot of people knew about me and all that since I came from the MAC. But fortunately, I got a chance to go to the All-Star game and the Combine. The conversations that followed that, were great. I had a great feeling with the Patriots. I really, really enjoyed talking to all the staff members that I had a chance to talk to. I had a 30 visit with them not too long ago. Honestly, it's such an amazing program and I can't wait to be part of it. Also, Boston which is about eight hours away from home is one of the best landing spots I could have asked for.

SCOUTING REPORTS

BSJ's Kevin Field

Yet another one that we had mocked to them as part of previews. A little early but that just tells me the league was higher on him than I expected. 

Round 7: OG Sidy Sow, Eastern Michigan (6-5, 323): He has 55 career starts and moves very well as a big man. He has the frame for the NFL level, but he'll need development at the next level. He's a late Day 3 flier that could surprise. I was impressed with him at the Combine. 

OurLads

3.79 Sow, Sidy | Eastern Michigan

H: 6046 W: 323 40: 5.07 A: 3358 H: 1038 W: 8100

Five-year starter, Bromont, Quebec. Three-time All-MAC, first team in 2021 and 2022. Sow began his career at left tackle then made the full-time transition to left guard in 2020. He has the NFL body and power presence, capable of getting movement off the ball and playing sticky to his target. Bear-claws for hands. Strong latch coupled with a long, stiff, and violent punch gives him a lot of initial wins. Will create good movement off the snap as a run blocker when he gets the hips involved. Keeps the feet active and will stay on the right side of defenders. Rarely penalized. Shows repeatable techniques on an island with a strong anchor in pass protection. Will lose his balance and control as a side shuffler. Gets top heavy and will over-set. Does not see stunts and twists well and does not have the athleticism to make up for it. Seems to overestimate his speed on angle blocks. The baseline athletic ability is there, but there are shortcomings with consistency and fluidity. Sow checks a lot of boxes but does not bode well enough against pro- caliber speed and quickness at this point. The floor is high enough to expect him to make a roster and fill the back end of the depth chart. OSR:13/37. 7th round/PFA

Brugler

STRENGTHS: Thickly-built and naturally carries bulk on his well-proportioned frame ... physical and strong in the run game and credits his Olympic weightlifting in high school for developing his strength ... aggressive into contact and drives his legs to widen the gap ... pounces out of his stance and is comfortable on the move to pull/trap ... anchors well in his pass sets with large hands and well-schooled, rapid-punch action ... adequate lateral quickness to square half-man defenders ... only one penalty (false start) as a senior in 2022 ... played a lot of football in college with 55 career starts, including 49 straight to finish his career ... has double-digit career starts at both left tackle and left guard.

WEAKNESSES: His hands are persistent and physical, but his placement needs to be more accurate ... appears heavy when climbing or attempting to make quick direction changes ... spotty balance at the second level ... inconsistent lower body sink as a pass blocker, leaving him hunched at the waist ... would by improved leverage to aid his recovery quickness ... needs to better anticipate rush sequencing to answer counter maneuvers ... relies more on his upper body power over positioning his frame to shield ... inconsistent locating blitzers from depth.

SUMMARY: A five-year starter at Eastern Michigan, Sow played left guard in head coach Chris Creighton’s duo-heavy offense. Primarily a defensive lineman growing up in Quebec, he moved to the offensive line when he arrived at EMU and became the all-time leader in games played (57) and games started (55) in school history. Patient and stout in pass protection, Sow is built-well with long arms and effective strike timing to answer the initial movements of rushers. He is able to latch-and- drive defenders in the run game, but needs to tighten his angles to stay connected. Overall, Sow needs further development with his sustain and recovery skills to maintain engagement, but his body type, play strength and functional movements are solid foundational traits of developmental blocker. He projects as a day three draft-and-develop prospect.

GRADE: 4th-5th Round

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

He looks like an Onwenu clone, with possibly more athletic ability. It should be noted that Onwenu is going into a contract year and OverTheCap gives him a valuation of $11 million per season. It's possible that contract extension talks have not progressed, and that Onwenu intends to go to free agency. It's always possible Onwenu moves to tackle — always a popular suggestion — but just like Belichick, Groh made it sound like Onwenu will remain at guard.

"Yeah, a great thing about Mike is he came in here, did he what was asked about him but he's really kind of settled in at guard," Groh said. "Like I talked about, you can say we drafted three guards. Well, you know, Jake's got a lot of experience at center, and Sidy has some experience at tackle and you know one thing you look at, a lot of got teams that we've had around here and certainly if you look at those two teams who are playing on the final weekend this year, you can't have enough good offensive lineman. So it's just something that you can never have enough of and if you don't have enough, it's going to be really hard on you. So looking forward to getting these guys in the mix and they are just going to have to come in here and compete with the rest of the crew, Mike and David and Cole and all the other guys in the tackle position as well."

I would not feel good about the future of Chasen Hines, who was a sixth-round pick last year.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

If the Patriots feel like the chances of retaining Onwenu aren't great, then I like this pick and I don't mind doubling up either. Did you have to take three interior guys in the first five rounds? That's the question.

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5.144 Atonio Mafi, G, UCLA
6025, 329
Age: 22 (Oct. 20)
Arms: 33. Hand: 10.5. Wingspan: 80. Bench: 21.

Began college career as a DT. Started 30 of 56 games overall. 13 at LG and 3 at RG.

Coached by Patriots at Shrine Bowl.

THEY SAID IT

Mafi

Q: I believe your cousins with Devin Asiasi? I'm just wondering if he's told you anything about what to expect playing for the Patriots?

AM: Most definitely. He's just told me already that it's a great place. I was there when he got drafted to the Patriots and his mom is here too right now for my draft party, and it's just been really good. I talked to him right after the call actually and he told me to go in with an open mind and to be really excited, come in with my head on right and get ready to work. I'm just really excited.

Q: Atonio, congratulations. For those who don't know you well, how would you describe yourself as a football player and your game?

AM: Just a guy that's willing to learn and willing to work. I feel like as a player I've yet to reach my full potential. I'm just kind of ready to go in there with a big coaching staff and just continue getting better day by day and just work. That's what I love to do. That's kind of the player I am, just put my head down and get to work.

Groh

Q: In the pre-draft press conference we were talking about your visit with Onwenu and how he was a different body type than maybe we have been accustomed to with the guards. These two guys look similar, I'm seeing 6-4, 323 for Sidy if I have it right, 6-2, 338 in that range for Atonio. I'm wondering, is this at all, am I overthinking it to -- tied to the quarterback we have? Like we've got to keep this thing, big guys in there, or am I overthinking that? Is there any thought process there with that?

MG: Atonio certainly bears a resemblance to Mike. Mike is a little bit bigger than Atonio but I can see how you can make that comparison just looking at the two. Atonio has a little bit of a different background and playing on both sides of the ball, so if you really want to get into diversity of some of the players, that's another guy who has done a lot of things for Coach Kelly out at UCLA. But in the depth of the pocket, I don't think there's a team in the league that's not going to tell you that's not important. That's something that we want to do but you can't just have a bunch of slugs in there. You have to be able to find some guys who can bend, move laterally, redirect. Look, we are going to face all different sorts of pressure from the interior, but No. 1, if you're getting run through, it's going to be a long day.  I think you can say that just about any team that's trying to put together a big, strong team up front and that's certainly something we want to do along with having right kind of play style. We want these guys to have a real toughness and grit to them, and like I said in the pre daft press conference, that doesn't just come from a magic wand. A lot of these guys have that innate and looking forward to seeing them get after it here.

SCOUTING REPORTS

BSJ's Kevin Field

Didn't have Mafi in the write-ups but watched him at the Shrine practices. Powerful guy but looked to be more effective in a phone booth.Here are my notes.

OG Antonio Mafi, UCLA (6-3, 329): He started his career at UCLA as a nose tackle. This was really his first year as a starter so he's a development project. Not surprising that he is really physical in the run game and plays nastiness. He's a fit for a power scheme because of his play strength. He wasn’t a Combine invite but he’s a draftable player. The Patriots coached him in the Shrine.

OurLads

ATONIO MAFI | UCLA 6025 | 329 lbs. | 5SR

SUMMARY: A one-year starter at UCLA, Mafi plugged in at left guard as a senior in head coach Chip Kelly’s diverse run offense. Recruited as a defensive lineman, he played two seasons at defensive tackle before transitioning to the offensive line in 2020. He made incremental improvements with each game the last two seasons at guard. Mafi has a rugby background with better-than-expected foot quickness, which allows him to fit his targets on the move with his length and body control. He relied on his stout base and strong hands/core to help mask his lack of refinement, both fundamentally and instinctually in college. Overall, NFL defenders will expose the raw areas of his game, but Mafi is a promising, heavy-handed mauler who looks to create movement with in-line power. Although he might need time on a practice squad, he has the talent worth developing in a power-based scheme.

GRADE: 6th-7th Round

Brugler

STRENGTHS: Big-bodied blocker with proportionate thickness and in-line power ... showcases anvil hands to deliver stiff strikes and create knockback ... displays the lateral footwork to stay out in front and execute reach/hook blocks ... enough mobility to stretch frontside on outside zone ... improved field vision to sort through exotic rush packages ... unloads on bodies out in space, removing defenders from their feet and burying them ... gets after defenders with a competitive spirit that comes naturally to him ... he “radically” changed his diet to maintain his weight (peaked at 411 pounds earlier in his career) ... tied a school record with 56 games played over his career, seeing action at both left and right guard.

WEAKNESSES: Former college defensive lineman and still a work in progress with his technique and awareness ... hungry for contact, leaving him lunging and overextended at the waist ... will drop his head and wait for contact instead of rolling his hips into defenders ... needs to improve his independent hand usage for more efficient resets ... inconsistent body angles and leverage points ... late to pick up delayed pressures and needs to anticipate loopers ... three false starts on the 2022 games studied ... his conditioning and weight will need to be closely monitored ... suffered an Achilles injury that prematurely ended his senior year of high school.

SUMMARY: A one-year starter at UCLA, Mafi plugged in at left guard as a senior in head coach Chip Kelly’s diverse run offense. Recruited as a defensive lineman, he played two seasons at defensive tackle before transitioning to the offensive line in 2020. He made incremental improvements with each game the last two seasons at guard. Mafi has a rugby background with better-than-expected foot quickness, which allows him to fit his targets on the move with his length and body control. He relied on his stout base and strong hands/core to help mask his lack of refinement, both fundamentally and instinctually in college. Overall, NFL defenders will expose the raw areas of his game, but Mafi is a promising, heavy-handed mauler who looks to create movement with in-line power. Although he might need time on a practice squad, he has the talent worth developing in a power-based scheme.

GRADE: 6th-7th Round

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

Even Groh said he's only a guard so he slots in at LG and will be competing with Ferentz, Murray and Hines for a backup job.

Basically, the Patriots just got young backups/developmental players at the three interior spots.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

OK, this is a little overkill considering that Cole Strange is only entering Year 2 and is a first-round pick. It's almost as if Adrian Klemm came in and said he didn't like Ferentz, Russey and Hines and the Patriots decided to give him new toys to play with.

Still, they couldn't be OK with just Mafi or Sow? They need both of them? It's pretty odd.

6.187 Kayshon Boutte, WR, LSU
5-11, 195 pounds, 4.50
Age: 20 (May 7)

Was prolific as a freshman and looked like the next great LSU wide receiver but injuries, effort and off-field issues derailed him. He's for sure a character risk with major red flags off the field, but there's no doubt the talent is there.

Brugler: "He initially announced that he would return to school for his senior season, but after an off-field incident put his status with the team in jeopardy, he decided to opt out of the 2022 bowl game and enter the 2023 NFL Draft."

As one NFL executive put it, "There's more."

THEY SAID IT

Groh

Q: I wanted to ask you about Kayshon. A while ago, he seemed like the next great LSU receiver after a phenomenal freshman year. How much potential do you see with this pick and what does the team have to do and what does Kayshon have to do to realize that potential that a lot of people saw a few years ago?

MG: Just got off the phone with some of these undrafted guys who we are looking to sign and had the message for them and that really goes for everybody.  Now, the opportunity is yours, and it's up to you to make the most of it. Kayshon had an unfortunate injury in 2021 and sometimes it takes a little bit of time to come back from those things and it's really going to be up to him to come in here with the right mindset.  He's got all the potential in the world. If he wants to apply himself and to reach that potential, look, we are going to do everything we can to help him succeed. We're going to give him every resource we can as the saying goes, players are our greatest resource, and you know, we made an investment in Kayshon here in the sixth round, so looking forward to see what he can do with his opportunity.

Boutte

Q: What do you know about the team?

KB: I know the team is great. They are a hard-working team. They have a lot of pride in handling their business and getting better each day. It’s kind of the main thing I’m going to focus on.

Q: How would you describe your college career?

KB: Personally, my college career was good, but it could have been better. That’s how I feel about it.

Q: How motivated are you coming to New England based on your college performance?

KB: I am motivated more than ever probably. It’s a blessing. It’s a blessing that I made it to the NFL and get drafted by the Patriots. It’s what every kid dreams of.

Q: How would you describe your game?

KB: I would describe my game as competitive. Every time I go out on the field, I have that mindset that I’ve got to dominate no matter who is in front of me. That’s my main focus and how I would describe my game.

Q: You scored 14 touchdowns in your first year at LSU. What do you need to do now that you have this opportunity with the Patriots? 

KB: I just have to focus on myself. It’s more about making sure that I am 100% putting in the work every day to get to where I want to be.

Q: Were you dealing with an injury at the Combine? 

KB: I would say the injury was a setback for me, but I feel like at the combine, I feel like that was just how I performed. It was nothing towards the injury or anything like that.

Q: What was the injury exactly?

KB: I broke a bone in my right ankle. I’m not sure exactly what bone.

Q: What would you say you model your game after? 

KB: I would say I don’t really model my game after anybody, but I watch football to pick up different skills from different receivers. One guy may do something better than the other but overall watching football, you kind of learn tips that can help you with your game. So, I really don’t model my game after anybody but I pick up little traits. 

Q: What do you want people to know about you who don’t know you?

KB: I would say that I want everyone to know that I am a hard worker and that I’m going to give 100%. I feel like I have been doubted a lot, I feel like it’s time for me to prove that I’m not that same person.

SCOUTING REPORTS

BSJ's Kevin Field

Another player that we had on the board. Difficult evaluation (I had him higher) so there's some boom or bust potential but no risk at this point. He'll have to prove everything and I think that's a good thing. Love the upside and limited downside.

Kayshon Boutte, LSU (5-11, 195: He has 16 career TDs, but he only had 2 this past year. That’s a microcosm of his college career. He was All-Freshman SEC (broke the SEC record with 308 yds receiving in one game) and he had a good sophomore season. But this year he wasn’t the same. He then followed it up by not testing well at the Combine which won’t help him. In short, I think he’s a boom or bust pick.

But here’s what I saw after watching a few games over the years. While he didn’t run great (4.50) he has plenty of “field” speed. Hands catcher with solid hand eye coordination but needs to watch concentration drops. He’s elite after the catch, elusive with body control, but he’s not a great route runner and there were times this year when he wasn't maximizing his effort.

Now here’s the key, I think he played injured this year. He had surgeries to repair his ankle and I think that affected his explosiveness a bit.

What do I like about him? He wore the fabled #7 jersey at LSU given to their top playmaker. The LSU staff reportedly praised him for his leadership in helping the team rally after a less-than-ideal start. He wasn't living up to his expectations, he was playing through injury, he had a new coach, with a new QB and didn't become a diva. Admittingly, this is a gamble pick (he could drop because of the ankle), but the talent is easy to see (D.J. Moore comp). I thought he played well enough on that ankle in the SEC championship (6 for 107, 1 TD) to roll the dice, making him an intriguing target for the Pats.

OurLads

7.41 Boutte, Kayshon | LSU

H: 6000 W: 205 40: 4.52 A: 3138 H: 0912 W: 7678

Junior entry, three-year starter, New Iberia, LA. After earning freshman All- America honors in 2020, Boutte continued to flash but never quite put it all together on a consistent basis. The explosive, well-proportioned receiver had his 2021 season cut short because of an ankle injury that required two surgeries. He then had a baby in September 2022. His final season in Baton Rouge was the worst of his career on a per-game basis despite seeing a major uptick in quarterback- quality. His drop rate increased, his effort looked questionable, and he was back and forth on commitment to his future at LSU and the Draft. Boutte has the talent, body, and past tape that can create long term hope for a successful career, but there are a lot of questions that need to be answered. Credible elite speed both on the track and on the field. Explosive, fluid hips with smooth and easy transitions as a route runner. Shows the knack and ability to create after the catch in multiple ways. Plays a strong, stable game and has the movement traits to both shake defenders and run away from them. Showed glimpses of number-one traits. Too many concentration drops on easy balls. Does not see the ball in, does not secure it upon contact. Tenses up in traffic or with defenders bearing down on him. Did not show enough in contested downfield situations. Will lose speed when tracking deep balls. His talent and upside are undeniable, but the lack of consistency and versatility give him a high-risk label that will cause teams to screen him extra and make a decision if he is worth spending the much-needed time on trying to develop him. 2022 Stats: 48-538, 11.2 ypr, 2 TD. OSR:45/46. 3rd/4th round.

Brugler

STRENGTHS: Average-sized athlete, but his pliable body movements help him as a route runner and ball carrier ... accelerates really well in the drive phase to challenge defensive backs ... flashes the route instincts to sit down or create pockets of separation ... not shy using physicality mid-routes and doesn’t let defenders bounce him from his path ... at his best after the catch thanks to his body strength to run through arm tackles and his vision to complicate pursuit angles ... able to expand his catch radius and sky for the ball ... shows the athletic adjustment skills to contort his body and comfortably snatch away from his frame ... was on pace for a record-setting sophomore year (led the FBS with nine touchdown grabs in the first six games) before his ankle injury ... his performance against Ole Miss as a freshman (14/308/3) is something NFL scouts still talk about.

WEAKNESSES: Doesn’t run every route with the same purpose ... has a bad habit of leaning as a route runner, tipping his break path ... doesn’t like the noise over the middle ... the ball gets on top of him quickly, enters his body and ends up on the ground ... needs to improve his batting average in contested catch situations ... not a proven deep target (only 11 of his college catches came on throws 20-plus yards downfield) ... will engage as a blocker but can be tossed and struggles to sustain ... limited special teams experience ... missed most of the sophomore season because of a broken right ankle (October 2021), which required a second surgery in the offseason when the ankle didn’t heal correctly ... encountered focus issues and immature moments throughout his tenure at LSU and was publicly called out by Brian Kelly to get him back on track ... didn’t leave LSU on the best terms, and his character will be deeply scrutinized by NFL teams.

SUMMARY: A three-year starter at LSU, Boutte worked primarily out of the slot in offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock’s scheme (he played for three different offensive coordinators in his three college seasons). Of all the talented wide receivers who have gone through the LSU program, none reached 100 career receptions faster than Boutte, who wore the No. 7 jersey in 2022 as the team’s most dynamic playmaker from Louisiana. With his athletic ball skills, Boutte can make erratic quarterbacks look better than they are, and he offers legitimate big-play ability thanks to his RAC skills (contact balance, body strength, acceleration). However, his game is marred by inconsistencies — focus drops, nonchalant routes and too many indicators that tip off defensive backs. Overall, Boutte is a confounding evaluation because he shows the athletic talent to be an NFL weapon, but his effort level doesn’t always match his ability, and most scouts view him as a slot-only prospect. Though he has NFL starting skills, the unpredictable nature of his game complicates his pro projection.

GRADE: 4th Round

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

I'm not really going to get into that yet because with this type of character risk, even the team first wants to see him be a professional, and then they'll go from there. He has inside/outside versatility in that he could be a poor man's Stefon Diggs.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

Look, he's a lottery pick in that the Patriots put $2 down and there's some hope that the talent is realized. They didn't invest much, and if Boutte screws up, he'll be gone in short order. I would not be shocked if he doesn't even make it to camp. I also wouldn't be shocked if he earns a big role as a rookie. The talent is undeniable. Will it all line up? We shall see. I don't mind the pick at all.

6.192 Bryce Baringer, P, Michigan State

SCOUTING REPORTS

McGinn

2. BRYCE BARINGER, Michigan State (6-1 1⁄2, 218, no 40, 6): Transferred from Illinois in spring 2018. Punted 15 times for the Spartans in 2018, took ’19 o and held the job for the past three seasons. “I had a lot of concerns about him initially,” one coach said. “He had a big leg yet he was a really big line-drive guy. That’s what he was asked to do. He went to the combine and he changed that. He got the ball up in the air really good. His combine workout was impressive. That ipped the script so now I think he’s the top guy. He has a very powerful leg along the same lines that (Jake) Camarda and (Jordan) Stout were a year ago. He did a solid job as a holder. He’s a h-round talent.” His gross average of 46.0 in 161 punts broke the Big Ten record of Reggie Roby (45.5) that he set from 1979-’82. Career best was 49.0 in 2022. “He’s a backup type that could come in and compete in camp and push for the starting job,” one scout said. “Strikes the ball cleanly. I don’t think he’ll be draed.” Career net of 41.1, including a career-best 45.7 in 2022. His career hang time was just 3.78 (3.76 in 2022). “He has his eyeglasses on and he was too cool for school,” a second scout said. “I said, ‘You’re a ake. No way.’” Performed well at the Senior Bowl. From Waterford, Mich.

OurLads:

4.99 Baringer, Bryce | Michigan State

H: 6013 W: 221 40: 4.95 A: 3012 H: 900 W: 7414

Four-year starter, Waterford, MI. Baringer is the top specialist in this year’s draft. His attention to detail, leg strength, and overall consistency makes him a very draftable player. He is a good holder who will help his kicker make more kicks. Will have the handling times and ability to punt directionally early in his NFL career. The former walk-on has battled through adversity and has the maturity needed to handle the week-to-week environment of an NFL season. Has had a couple of solid post-season workouts and put up hang-times and distances that will make him highly sought after by teams needing a young punter. 2022 Stats: 50-2450 yds, 49.0 avg. 5th/6th round.

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

With Jake Bailey gone, the Patriots only have unheralded Corliss Waitman on the roster. Time for a camp punt-off, with the draft pick the leader in the clubhouse.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

Pats needed a punter and didn't trade up in the fourth round to get him. What's not to like?

6.210 Demario Douglas, WR, Liberty
5-8, 179, 4.44
Age: 22 (Dec. 8)

THEY SAID IT

Douglas

Q: How would you describe your style of play?

DD: I'd say electric. If you would use one word, I'd say electric. I'd say I can do it all, play inside receiver, outside and then I also add value to special teams, punt return, kick return.

Q: How familiar are you with the Patriots organization and their history of speedy inside receivers?

DD: I've met the staff at East-West Shrine. I felt like I just knew how I got along so good with the staff. I'd say the staff did a great job of coaching me and making me already feel like I'm in the NFL as I was going through the process. So, I believe I'm home.

Q: Is there anyone you model your game after? Any receiver in the NFL you look up to?

DD: There's a couple. A lot of people like my height. There's one actually on the team. But he plays everywhere. I'd say Marcus Jones. I'd say Greg Dortch, Elijah Moore. A lot of people my build and that do the same thing.  

Q: Have you met Marcus Jones or just watched him from afar?

DD: I've watched him from afar since he was in college.

Q: What did you like about his game?

DD: He just can do it all. That's how I was in high school. In high school I played everything. I wish I could've done it in college, but hey. Then watching him actually do that at the highest level is amazing.

Q: Okay. You talked about your experience at the Shrine Bowl working with the Patriots coaching staff. I just want to know what else you remember from those interactions and what your impressions of them were?

DD: I remember I had a punt return and Coach [Bill] Belichick told me keep the ball you know, like rubbing my muscles. Very coachable things that I definitely will be bringing to the Pats. Just what the coaching staff installed in me just for transitioning from college to the NFL.

Q: From watching your tape looks like you're pretty elusive after the catch. Where did you develop those skills to kind of avoid the bigger defenders out there?

DD: I'd say that was at a young age just playing outside with my closest friends, playing outside, playing football. You're just doing things that you've seen on TV. You realize you can actually do it. So, I've carried it on since a young age. I've been, I guess just getting better and better as I got older.

SCOUTING REPORTS

BSJ's Kevin Field

Another one from the board. Not much difference at this point from a late Rd 6 to PFA. Matter of fact it ensures you don't have to compete for the player. So there's some strategy involved at this point.

Demario Douglas, Liberty (5-8, 179): He's young (only a redshirt soph) who would have benefitted from staying in school another year but he’s a weapon with the ball in his hands. He'd be tough to tackle in a phone booth (20 missed tackles this year). He’s small but was able to get off press because of agility. He’s more a space runner vs. a route runner that gets open. To see the field consistently for the Patriots he’ll need to develop significantly. Lastly, he'll offer return ability, but he doesn’t have enough consistency (6 muffs according to PFF) to displace someone like Marcus Jones. But when you’re getting picked this late the more you do helps to make a roster.Finally, what you saw from Marcus Jones on offense last year, he could hopefully give you a in a full-time role.

Ourlads

3.65 Douglas, Demario | Liberty

H: 5080 W: 175 40: 4.38 A: 3014 H: 0834 W: 7212

Junior entry, two-year starter, Jacksonville, FL. The majority of his career was spent in the slot. Of the 887 pass snaps he was on the field, 779 of them were inside. His contributions were also on special teams. He has 72 returns on his resume, two of which were returned for a touchdown. His shifty movement traits show up with the ball in his hands but there is also upside here as a route runner. The burst out of his breaks and snappy hands will give an offense options underneath and after the catch. The limitations in his game are obvious but there are multiple spectrums of contribution that will come from him. Sudden in and out movement is hard to touch for defenders. Can avoid contact with shake and control. Reaches his top speed in a hurry. Maintains his balance as he tracks the ball from all angles. Strong hands rarely let the ball hit the turf. Toughness and playmaking ability show up on special teams as well. Slight build with a small radius. Does not run his routes as sharply as his ability permits. Needs to clean up his attention to detail. Six muffed punts over the last three years. Has the ceiling to be a contributing slot receiver, but his margin for error is razor-thin and he must clean up the finer points of the position such as route running and ball security. 2022 Stats: 79-993, 12.6 ypr, 6 TD, 14-291 KOR, 20.8 avg. OSR:9/46. 7th round/PFA.

Brugler

STRENGTHS: Plays with controlled burst and fluidity to create pockets of separation ... uses agile footwork and body rhythm for quick stems ... threatens the seam with his explosive acceleration ... catches the ball cleanly in space or from compromised positions ... nifty after the catch to glide away from defenders but also shows the toughness to drop his pads into contact ... productive punt returner with a 7.1 average and two career touchdown returns (54/383/2) ... added kick return duties in 2022, averaging 20.8 yards per return (14/291/0) ... described by an NFL scout as a “charismatic kid” who wants to be great ... combined for 14 catches for 269 yards (19.2 average) and three touchdowns against Arkansas and Wake Forest in 2022.

WEAKNESSES: Small-framed target with below-average length, build and growth potential ... has the athletic lower body to beat the jam but didn’t face a ton of press in college ... doesn’t lack for toughness, although long, physical defenders will knock him off his route path ... relies more on his elusive feet than refinement in his route running ... most of his drops came on throws of 20-plus yards downfield where his tracking let him down ... had multiple muffed punts each of the past three seasons (six total in his career) ... modest touchdown catch totals ... worked almost exclusively out of the slot in college.

SUMMARY: A two-year starter at Liberty, Douglas was the slot receiver in former head coach Hugh Freeze’s zone-read offense. There was no doubt who was the go- to weapon in the Flames’ offense in 2022 as no other receiver had more than 25 catches compared to Douglas’ 79 grabs. A dynamic catch-and-go athlete, Douglas prioritizes the catch before showing off his competitive instincts and speed. He posted impressive testing numbers at the combine that match what he put on tape in college. Overall, Douglas’ role at the next level will be limited by his lack of size, length and power, but his explosive urgency as a receiver and returner increases his chances of finding an NFL home.

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

Gets thrown into the mix at receiver and kick returns. First legit guy with a chance at slot since Edelman. Ideally, he learns for a year and shows he's ready for a role if Smith-Schuster is only here for a year.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

Love it. How long have I been asking for a jitterbug on offense, especially from the slot? Sign me up.

6.214 Ameer Speed, DB, Michigan State
6-3 ½, 210, 4.33 speed.
Age: 23 (Oct. 11)

THEY SAID IT

Speed

Q: How would you describe what type of player you are?

AS: I'm ready to come into work. I feel like I'm a versatile player and whether it's special teams, defense, whatever, I'm ready to come in and help the team any way necessary.

Q: They were talking on the TV after the Patriots picked you and I believe if I heard it right, they said you were like Georgia's top special teams player, like getting an award one year? Does that sound right to you? Can you tell me a little bit more about that?

AS: Yes, sir that's true. I believe that was the year 2021. The year we won our first Natty [National Championship].

Q: What is the award? What do you remember getting it for like in terms of is it like tackles, just all-around performance, how do they do that?

AS: It was just most outstanding special teams player award basically just the person's that's most locked in and when their name was called, whether it was first quarter, second quarter, blowout, down, tied game, being there, being able to help the team any means necessary. Special teams is a one play series, and a part of the game and being able to take that series and try to be your best on that play. I believe I executed. I did well that year, that's why I got the award.

Q: What type of roles do you play? I would imagine like a gunner. Is that something that you did a lot of? What were some of the different roles on special teams?

AS: Yes, sir. Receivers and DBs play a lot of gunner and jammers, especially on punt return. But I've been a lot of positions on KOR and kickoff coverage. Anything that’s needed, I'm willing to learn and step in and be able to help.  

SCOUTING REPORTS

Brugler

SUMMARY: Ameer (ah-MEAR) Speed was an All-Conference cornerback at Sandalwood High in Duval County and led his team to an undefeated regular season and the 2016 district title. A three-star recruit, he committed to Georgia over Michigan State and three other finalists. However, he struggled to find his footing on the cornerback depth chart and logged more snaps on special teams (518) than defense (336) over his five years in Athens. He transferred to East Lansing for his final season in 2022 and had a mixed season in his debut as a full-time starter. Speed lives up to his name with the wheels to turn and run with anyone downfield. He has impressive size and length but needs to put his long arms to better use in press and downfield. His route recognition and ball skills are both areas of concern. Overall, Speed doesn’t have the body of work or college tape of an NFL Draft pick, but he has enticing athletic gifts for his size plus a ton of special teams experience.

GRADE: Priority Free Agent

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

For now, I'm putting him in competition with Jack Jones on one side, and the next pick (Isaiah Bolden) will get a look on the other with Christian Gonzalez.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

Another future bet with upside, which is what you should be doing late in the draft. Patriots don't have anyone with his profile

7.245 Isaiah Bolden, DB, Jackson State
6-2, 201, 4.33

THEY SAID IT

Bolden

Q: I know you're a bigger corner. Can you describe your style of play? Are you kind of a press man at the line? Do you like to get your hands on a guy? How would you describe your style play?

IB: I'm a corner who's real versatile. I can put my hands on you, press corner, I can be off-man, quicker guys, really just versatile. Versatility is a big thing in my game.

Q: Was that something that you discussed with the Patriots during your meetings with them, your versatility? Maybe even a free safety?

LS: We just discussed how I would fit in with the Patriot way and really just get a feel for the coaches. Really just getting to know them and having a good interaction. That was all.

Q: How much do you enjoy playing special teams and returning the ball?

IB: Oh, I enjoy it a lot. That's my bread and butter right there. Most definitely, I feel like I can contribute as soon as possible.

Q: Congratulations and welcome to New England. I'm curious if you've spoken at all with the Patriots about what they envision your role to be?

IB: They didn't really talk about that. We just really talked about the Patriots way and if I could come in and contribute as soon as possible.

SCOUTING REPORTS

BSJ's Kevin Field

CB Isaiah Bolden, Jackson St (6-2, 203): Ideal outside cornerback length and traits. He started his career at FSU before transferring to play for Coach Deion Sanders at Jackson State. He’s a project but he has the size, speed (4.33) combo for press coverage. He does have return ability which will help him make a roster but he’s going to need time on the practice squad to develop.

Brugler:

SUMMARY: Isaiah “Zay” Bolden was a receiver and defensive back at Bartram Trail High before transferring to Wesley Chapel (though he was temporarily dismissed from the team in 2017). He was also a standout track athlete, winning conference titles in the 100 (10.54) and 200 meters (21.74). A four-star recruit, he flipped from Florida State to Willie Taggart and Oregon, then flipped back to FSU after Taggart was hired there as head coach. After two seasons, he left the team early in the 2020 season and transferred to Jackson State to play for Deion Sanders. Bolden led the FCS in kick return yards (36.9 average) in 2021 and became a starting cornerback in 2022. Although his technique and play recognition are underdeveloped, he moves differently than most his size. As a return specialist, he has special acceleration. Overall, Bolden isn’t a squeaky-clean prospect and is unproven in several areas, but his rare mix of speed, length and explosive traits is ready to be cultivated.

GRADE: Priority Free Agent

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WHERE DOES HE FIT WITH THE PATRIOTS?

Probably a kickoff return specialist to start, and he'll get looks at corner and free safety.

BEDARD'S REACTION TO THE PICK

It's a free-agent signing, basically. Another traity player, which I love, so all good with this as well.

___________________

UDFA QB Mailk Cunningham, Louisville

Wanted to note there are multiple reports the Patriots have signed Cunningham, and gave him a big bonus (which really doesn't matter at the end of the day, it doesn't mean they are on the roster).

Brugler:

Was looking for a developmental, traity QB, and this is one although I bet he plays different positions to start.