With Dont’a Hightower, Ja’Whaun Bentley and Jamie Collins all headed to unrestricted free agency, the New England Patriots might have to rebuild their linebacker corps this offseason. The best — and cheapest — way to do that is via the draft, and this year’s version offers some intriguing talent at the position.
Among the top linebackers available is Georgia’s Nakobe Dean. Despite measuring at only 5-foot-11, 229 pounds at the Scouting Combine, he projects as a first-round selection this year. The Patriots might be a potential landing spot.
If the latest mock draft by ESPN’s Todd McShay turns out to be accurate, that is exactly what will happen.