New England Patriots: Ideal 2021 NFL Draft target in each round

New England Patriot 2021 NFL Draft targets (Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports)
New England Patriot 2021 NFL Draft targets (Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports) /
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Ihmir Smith-Marsette, New England Patriots, 2021 NFL Draft
The New England Patriots should target Ihmir Smith-Marsette in the 2021 NFL Draft (Photo by Steven Branscombe/Getty Images) /

New England Patriots 2021 NFL Draft: Top Sixth-Round Target

Current sixth-round selections: 185th and 187th overall

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Ihmir Smith-Marsette WR

Iowa Hawkeyes Football
Iowa Hawkeyes Football /

Player Stats

The 2021 NFL Draft is loaded with talent at the wide receiver position. The New England Patriots could certainly look to address the position early but if they decide to wait, targeting Ihmir Smith-Marsette late would certainly make sense.

Smith-Marsette is a smooth and explosive wide receiver prospect who shows tremendous playmaking ability out of the slot. He is a precise route runner who separates from man coverage well, shows soft hands and is an impressive playmaker after the catch. Smith-Marsette also shows a ton of ability as a return specialist and that kind of versatility will likely appeal to the Patriots.

New England Patriots 2021 NFL Draft: Top Seventh-Round Target

Current seventh-round selection: 241st overall

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CJ Marable RB

Coastal Carolina Chanticleers
Coastal Carolina Chanticleers /

Player Stats

The New England Patriots will likely move forward with Damien Harris as their primary running back. However, with both James White and Rex Burkhead hitting free agency this offseason, the Pats could be looking for a pass-catching back in the 2021 NFL Draft.

Next. Patriots' 7-round mock draft. dark

CJ Marable is a smooth and elusive running back who sees the field well and hits the hole quickly. He does a great job of making defenders miss in space and is a tough runner who shows great contact balance. Most importantly, Marable shows exciting ability as a receiver out of the backfield. He undoubtedly has some upside as a third-down back at the next level.