The New England Patriots' 1973 draft class headlined by first-round draft picks John Hannah (guard), Sam Cunningham (running back) and Darryl Stingley (receiver) could be the choice as the franchise's best ever. So, too, could the 1995 draft class, led by Ty Law (cornerback), Ted Johnson (linebacker), Curtis Martin (running back) and Dave Wohlabaugh (center). But after consulting one respected Patriots staffer who was part of that era of New England football, the choice was the 1976 class. Here's a closer look:
Mike Haynes, defensive back, Arizona State, fifth overall: Elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame, Haynes played in New England from 1976-1982 before going on to the Los Angeles Raiders from 1983-89.