Patriots Historical Drafting
Over the last 16 years, the Patriots have made 15 selections at tackle. They have 1 player on the roster, third-rounder Caeden Wallace (Penn St), from the current front office.
Draft Expectations for the Position
From a league perspective, over the last 18 years, there’s been an average of 4 selected in the first round. This year, I expect at least that number. On average, there are 21 offensive tackles taken in the draft each year. That number has gone as high as 27 players selected. Last year the number of tackles selected was 22.
Most of the NFL, Patriots included, need offensive tackle help, so you will see a run on the position in the first 2 rounds. Maybe you get lucky in the third round. After that, it’s about getting developmental prospects that can turn into reliable starters. The Patriots have not drafted ahead at this position, which is likely more about how the board fell vs. gross negligence. The takeaway, they may need to move around to get their guy if it’s not at the top of the draft.
Protecting Drake Maye and building along the line of scrimmage is a top priority.
Potential Fits for the Patriots by Round
Round 1: Will Campbell, LSU (6-6, 319)
Campbell started as a true freshman at LSU and finished with 40 career starts in the SEC; rare at any position, but especially along the OL. He was a two-time team captain, back-to-back First-Team All-SEC, and named to Feldman’s Freaks List. Smart, physical, and athletic. Plus feet, he does a good job resetting his base, absorbing power, and staying engaged through the rep. Consistently helped his QB with coverage recognition and line calls. He can get out over his toes when trying to mirror inside counters (Bama and A&M games showed this), but outside of that, there are few true red flags. Gave up just two sacks over the last two years and only one penalty in 2024.
He’s a bit of an outlier from a wingspan standpoint shortest wingspan of any potential NFL starter but he’s proven it on tape. Teams will need to be comfortable with that deviation. Heavy hands, strong anchor, and checks every off-field box. He’s a tackle until proven otherwise.
Round 2: Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota (6-6, 331)
Big Ten OL of the Year in 2024. Three-year starter with 38 games under his belt, including captainship duties. Showed well against top pass rushers, including keeping Abdul Carter off the stat sheet (1 pressure, 0 sacks). Made Feldman’s Freaks List and tested well, not elite, well enough. Former basketball player with good footwork in the run game. Technically, there’s room to grow. He plays high, struggling with pad level and inside counters. That said, he processes stunts well, mirrors edge speed enough to survive on the left side, and has the frame to kick to the right side if needed. I saw some Marcus Cannon in him.
If they don’t come away with Campbell early, I could see them targeting him. The traits are there to become a long-term starter.
Round 3: Ozzy Trapilo, Boston College (6-8, 316)
Trapilo has the physical build and mental traits that teams love in a developmental tackle. Technically sound. He stays square, mirrors well, good patience in pass sets. Was 1st Team All-ACC in 2024, 2nd Team in 2023, and didn’t allow a sack in 2023. Coached by Doug Marrone and reportedly well-liked by Bill O’Brien, so there’s plenty of trusted voices on his makeup.
He’ll need to add strength and improve how he leverages his length at the next level. Not a finished product, but he has a clean floor and enough projection to sneak into Day 2. Safe swing tackle that should be a starter. I like him.
Round 4: Anthony Belton, NC State (6-6, 336)
This feels like cheating because I don’t think will be available on Day 3. Belton impressed at the Senior Bowl; wide base, strong anchor, and consistently won 1v1 reps. Started 32 games at LT but may kick to the right side. Plays heavy and will need to manage his weight to maintain mobility. It shows up with how he leans on guys and the penalties, 8 this year, and some sloppy hand placement. First glance, he’d fit a power scheme but he’s more athletic than he initially looks. Traits are there, but the offensive line coach needs to buy into the development plan.
Round 5: Jalen Travis, Iowa State (6-8, 339)
Started his career at Princeton (2x All-Ivy), transferred to Iowa State, and brings elite length and frame to the table. Comes from a basketball family and his footwork and movement skills reflect that. Off the field, everything checks out. But on tape, he plays too tall and struggles to stay balanced against quicker DEs. If he tightens up his punch timing and leverage, he has greater ability. He’ll need a redshirt year.
Round 6: Myles Hinton, Michigan (6-7, 323)
Great candidate to be a strong swing tackle. Has experience on both sides, and comes with NFL size and smarts. Father played in the league for a long time. However, the finer points of his game need coaching and this type of upside pick that the line coaches would need to sign off on.
Round 7: Chase Lundt, UConn (6-7, 304)
Four-year starter (49 starts). Coaches rave about his leadership and toughness. He’s thin for tackle (he’ll need an NFL training table) and shorter arms may bump him inside but he’s athletic enough to mirror and finishes in the run game. Best fit is likely in a zone scheme, which can maximize his lateral quickness. If he sticks at guard, he could develop into a starter, or be a potential swing tackle.
