New England Patriots mock draft: Following up a huge free agency

The Patriots brought back Kyle Van Noy in free agency, they’re getting Dont’a Hightower back after his opt-out in 2020, and Ja’Whaun Bentley has developed into a solid player for them.

With that being said, none of those three guys bring to the table what Jabril Cox does as a linebacker prospect, and that is the ability to be a game-changer in coverage.

Cox transferred to LSU from North Dakota State and his production going from the FCS National Champs to the FBS National Champs didn’t change a bit.

Cox has tremendous game speed and range, and he plays with instincts. He racked up eight pass breakups and three interceptions at LSU, bringing his career college totals to 26 and 9, respectively.

Having a guy like this who can touch 21 MPH in a game situation and play the ball that well from the off-ball linebacker position is becoming a must in today’s NFL.

Although Cox is not as highly regarded as some of the LSU linebackers that preceded him, he would have a chance to be one of the best values in the draft here in the middle of round two.