The New England Patriots have three positional groups with a dire need for talent — cornerback, wide receiver and linebacker.
Bill Belichick has the No. 21 overall pick and there will be excellent options for all three positions in the draft. It wouldn’t be surprising if the Patriots filled a hole on the offensive line with their first-round pick, but it’s possible they fill a position of need.
J.C. Jackson’s departure left the cornerback group as likely the most depleted on the team. Stephon Gilmore was traded shortly before Jackson’s departure and it left the Patriots with Jalen Mills and Jonathan Jones as the next-best options.