Patriots 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Select Speedy Tight End on Day 2

The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching, and the New England Patriots are gearing up for crucial selections. With the draft set to take place in just two weeks, the Patriots’ strategy focuses on enhancing their roster’s depth, particularly at edge defender, offensive tackle, and tight end. This year’s draft class may not boast elite talent, but it offers considerable depth that the Patriots can exploit with the 31st overall pick.

Patriots 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Day 2 Selections

Here’s a breakdown of the Patriots’ projected picks across the draft rounds.

Round 1, Pick No. 31: EDGE Malachi Lawrence, UCF

One of the Patriots’ primary needs is a strong edge rusher. They have made minimal gains in this area, releasing several players, including Anfernee Jennings and Jahlani Tavai. The addition of Dre’Mont Jones helps, but more depth is required.

• Player: Malachi Lawrence
• Height/Weight: 6’4″, 253 lbs
• College Stats: 20 sacks, 39 games, 28 tackles for loss
• Combine Performance: 4.52-second 40-yard dash

Lawrence’s athleticism and track record in college could make him an impactful situational edge rusher, with potential to evolve into a starting role.

Round 2, Pick No. 63: OT Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern

The Patriots must bolster their offensive line to ensure stability. With Will Campbell and Morgan Moses as starters, adding depth is crucial.

• Player: Caleb Tiernan
• College Ranking: 65th on the consensus big board
• Transition: Experience on both left and right tackle

Tiernan possesses the necessary physical attributes, although his arm length may warrant concern at the professional level.

Round 3, Pick No. 95: TE Oscar Delp, Georgia

Tight end is another position where the Patriots seek enhancement. With Hunter Henry as the primary option following the exit of Austin Hooper, adding Delp could provide future stability.

• Player: Oscar Delp
• Height/Weight: 6’5″, 245 lbs
• College Stats: 70 receptions, 854 yards, 9 touchdowns
• Combine Performance: 4.49-second 40-yard dash

Delp has the size and skill set that suggest he could excel in the NFL, making him a worthy selection on Day 2.

Round 4, Picks No. 125 and 131: WR Colbie Young, Georgia and LB Jack Kelly, BYU

The Patriots are also targeting wide receivers and linebackers to enhance their roster’s versatility.

• Colbie Young
• Height/Weight: 6’5″, 218 lbs
• College Stats: 116 receptions, 1,437 yards, 13 touchdowns
• Jack Kelly
• Height/Weight: 6’2″, 240 lbs
• College Stats: 15 sacks, 106 tackles over two seasons

Both players bring significant upside and could contribute immediately.

Rounds 5 to 7: Additional Selections

The Patriots are expected to continue reinforcing various positions with their remaining picks.

• Round 5, Pick No. 171: OL Keagen Trost, Missouri
• Round 6, Picks No. 191, 198, 202: RB Adam Randall, Clemson; CB Charles Demmings, Stephen F. Austin; TE Will Kacmarek, Ohio State
• Round 7, Pick No. 224: S Cole Wisniewski, Texas Tech

This diverse approach aims to ensure the Patriots secure not only immediate contributors but also future stars to sustain success.