New England Patriots seven-round 2020 NFL mock draft

T.J. Brunson was a stable force in the middle of the South Carolina defense for the last three seasons, piling up 271 total tackles (21 for loss) and six sacks. Brunson is an extremely competitive player who always seems to be in the mix against the run. He is the most physical player on the field at all times and shows some impressive block shed ability.

Brunson lacks ideal athleticism and is going to have some struggles in coverage. However, he undoubtedly has value as an early-down linebacker and potential special teams asset. Brunson feels like a guy who could come in and take on a role similar to what Elandon Roberts had with the New England Patriots.

I find it unlikely that the Patriots do not at least take a flyer on a quarterback prospect at some point in the 2020 NFL Draft. In this mock draft, Nathan Stanley is the guy, as he falls into their laps in the seventh round.

Stanley has some obvious accuracy issues, especially on the deep ball, but he is a big guy with a strong arm who played in a Pro-Style offense in college. Stanley shows promising decision-making skills and has some nice pocket presence. If Stanley is available this late, I could certainly see the Patriots taking a flyer on him and seeing if he can develop some accuracy to go with the rest of his skills.

The Patriots probably aren’t taking three receivers in the draft, but if there is ever a year to do it, this is it. Joe Reed was an impact kick returner in college who showed impressive playmaking ability with the ball in his hands. He is not a refined route-runner, but he does show solid hands, great speed and fantastic balance.

Reed may not ever be a huge offensive contributor at the next level, but I could see him appealing to the Patriots as a special teams asset. His top-notch kick return ability is obvious, but he also shines in kick coverage.