The second round is often the most interesting round. There is always first round talent left over, and second round money. The Pats have done very well in the 2nd the past two seasons. I believe they are less likely to be picking at 50 then they are at 14. The players who can best help this team will be in the 30’s and early 40’s. Adding 4th and 5th round picks will move you up pretty far into the 30’s. Here are some players who be around in the 30’s:
Jeff Faine- He is a tough mean and strong O-Center from Notre Dame, who is the O-linemen most ready to step into the starting line-up in the NFL. He could start at Center or Guard for the Pats next season, and help solidify this O-Line. He was brought into Foxboro for an interview.
Eugene Wilson- A little short, but fast and a solid man-to-man cover guy. He probably would not start right away, but step into the Dime Corner, and be the Nickle back or starter in two years.
Sammy Davis- He appears to have moved into the first round, and the Steelers would certainly have a hard time passing him. He is a little bigger and faster then Wilson, but as a good a cover guy, yet. But he may have more upside. He still gives to much cushion.
Bryant Johnson-
Terrific WR with size, speed, and terrific hands. He may have worked himself
into the first round as well. He ran an impressive 4.37 forty at 6-2 218 pounds.
He could the big WR the Pats are looking for.
Musa Smith- Another big tough runner who surprised everybody with his speed in the forty, 4.47 at 231 pounds! Rushed for 1324 yards last season, despite an O-line that had lots of problems last season.
Dennis Weathersby- First round talent who was shot this week. I had him going 16 o KC, and they could easily take him just ahead of the Pats at 47. He could be the steal of the draft in the second round.
Rien Long- Ran a 5.4 forty and plummeted out of the first round. Another big injury concern, but he was the Outland Trophy winner last season, and had 13 sacks form the DT position. As miraculous a recover McGahee's knee injury has been, Longs recovery has been a disaster.
And of course there is Willis McGahee will he or won't he go in the first round. I don't believe he will be playing early next season. His one big advantage is that he can go on the PUP, and not have to be activated until November. This would allow him 5 more months to heal without taking up a roster spot, much like Womack. And like Womack really should play next season. If the Pats trade up and take him in the second round they could allow him the extra year with no pressure. This appears to be the snag in the Chicago trade. the Pats want to give up the 14 and 19 picks for Chicago's picks in the first and second rounds. Chicago doesn't want to give up their 2nd- number 35, I'm assuming because they want to grab a QB either Simms or Ragone. And the Pats won't budge because they want to grab McGahee.