Standing Pat at 14: NFL Draft Insider Predicts Wide Receiver for New England?

FOXBORO — As the late, great Gorilla Monsoon would say: “The time for the talk has just about ended.”

With the start of the 2023 NFL draft just hours away, the diligence has been done by all 32 NFL teams in preparing to improve their rosters for the upcoming season.

Still, there is time for a little last-minute. speculation — especially when it comes to the New England Patriots.

During a Thursday afternoon appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, FoxSports.com’s Peter Schrager predicted that if the Pats retain the No. 14 pick on Thursday night, they are likely to consider adding to their corps of wide receivers, or front-seven defenders.

"If the Patriots stay at 14 I think it's Zay Flowers or Lukas Van Ness," Schrager said.

Flowers is among the top recieving prospects in the nation, with an added vertical element which allows him to separate from his defender. He fininshed his senior season on Chestnut Hill having compiled 78 catches for 1,077 yards with 12 touchdowns. Arguably, his best trait is the ability to add yards after the catch. In fact, he averaged 13.8 yards-per-catch for BC in 2022.

Though his speed and talent are as impressive as any player at his position, Flowers’ only potential drawback may be his size. Generously listed at 5-10, 172, his ability to hold up against some of the country’s most physical corners (with pro-level size and skill set) is something that scouts — especially the Patriots coaches will be weighing throughout the incoming month.

Flowers may also prove to be a coveted asset by new Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien. During his first tour of duty with New England, O’Brien helped navigate a Patriots offense, which featured ball protection, efficient running and spreading the ball to multiple pass catchers — including tight ends and versatile receivers.

Van Ness is also an intriguing prospect for New England, with strong developmental upside. The 6-5, 272 pound defensive end appeared in 27 games for the Iowa Hawkeyes, earning 36 total tackles (19 for loss) and 13 sacks.

The 21-year-old possesses inherent power, which is likely to make him a formidable lineman at the pro level. His versatility lends itself for him to specialize either as a pass rusher, or a run defender; while developing both skill sets. Van Ness demonstrated impressive athleticism during the pre-draft workout process, posting a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, as well as a 7.02-second three-cone drill, and a 118-inch broad jump.

Still, Van Ness’ technique is a bit raw to meet the expectations of being an impact player from the outset. As such, his selection would indicate New England’s desire to secure his services for the not-so-distant future. Though listed as a defensive end, his ability to play either on the inside or outside makes him an option to move to the edge — similar to the skill set exhibited by Deatrich Wise, Jr. Despite both Wise and linebacker Matthew Judon being under contract for the next two seasons, Van Ness could be New England’s choice to replace linebackers Josh Uche and Anfrenee Jennings — who are headed for unrestricted free agency at season’s end. At the very least, he will certainly strengthen the Pats defensive front for the foreseeable future.

Judging from the timing of previous drafts, Patriots Nation will find out at approximately 9:40 p.m. ET, when the team is set to make its first selection.

Follow Mike D’Abate on Twitter @mdabateNFL and Listen/Subscribe to his daily podcast: Locked On Patriots

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