The New England Patriots were one of the busiest teams in the 2023 NFL Draft. New England drafted a total of 12 players, addressing a laundry list of needs on both sides of the ball, and – a Bill Belichick staple – some needs in special teams.
Introducing your 2023 rookie class 👏#PatsDraft | #ForeverNE pic.twitter.com/YMaTBxAmYx
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 29, 2023
The Patriots attacked the draft with an eye on all three phases of the game, but how did they do with their selections?
New England opened their draft by taking Oregon corner Christian Gonzalez at No. 17.
Going, going, Gonzo.
Welcome to New England, @chrisgonzo28! pic.twitter.com/2fOUcwU5Ij
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 28, 2023
Gonzalez is a great athlete who should fit in well with the Patriots’ defense, and the team got great value for him as he was seen as a top five pick in some mock drafts.
The Patriots drafted Georgia Tech edge rusher Keion White in the second round with pick No. 46.
Keen on Keion.
Welcome to the Patriots, @good_vib3z! pic.twitter.com/YTNPKcX7X7
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 29, 2023
Much like Gonzalez, White is an exceptional athlete. He is still raw when it comes to the skill set of an NFL edge rusher, but with time he could be a great complement to Matthew Judon.
New England addressed the need for talent at the wide receiver position with two picks in the sixth round, LSU’s Kayshon Boutte and Liberty’s Demario Douglas. Douglas is likely to fit into the roster on special teams, while Boutte is a more interesting prospect.
Taking a tiger 🐯
Welcome to the Pats, @KayshonBoutte1! pic.twitter.com/s2RRFmBeCv
— New England Patriots (@Patriots) April 29, 2023
At one time believed to be a top 10 talent in this draft, lackluster production caused him to drop. If he can live up to his pre-season billing, Boutte could be an absolute steal for the Patriots this late in the draft.
The Patriots drafted well without reaching for players in this draft, and were able to get great value.
Based on how things look now, I would give the New England Patriots a grade of B for how they handled the 2023 NFL Draft.