New England Patriots: Positions of need for the 2021 NFL Draft
By Ian Higgins
2021 NFL Draft need: Tight End
2020 Starters: Ryan Izzo, Devin Asiasi
Ever since the departure of Rob Gronkowski, one of the most obvious needs at Gilette stadium has been a threatening tight end. Belichick opted to take two in the 2020 NFL draft, with potential receiving threat Devin Asiasi and the more versatile Dalton Keene. Ryan Izzo has retained the starting role for 2020 and is a serviceable receiving option.
One of the greatest aspects of Gronk’s game was his ability to operate as a run blocker and made as much of an impact as any offensive tackle. With the run game in New England becoming the center of attention, this trait can not be ignored. The largest of the New England tight ends is Ryan Izzo, who measures in at 6-foot-5, 256 pounds but does not play with the associated physicality, operating more often as a receiver.
The 2021 NFL Draft has a handful of elite tight end prospects, two of which fit perfectly into the prototypical physical mold of an NFL tight end. Florida Gator Kyle Pitts will likely be drafted before the New England Patriots selection, so far showing to be the best in the nation with his four-touchdown performance against Ole Miss.
A more likely option could be Penn State product Pat Freiermuth. Fitting the mold at 6-foot 5, 260 pounds, Freiermuth possesses impressive route running to shake defenders at the break and be a reliable target on third down. Freiermuth hasn’t been a showstopping blocker in the run game, but with his size and athleticism, Belichick and company can likely coach him into form.
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Pat Freiermuth TE
