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Surprise pick in new ESPN mock draft gives Patriots ‘legitimate’ strength

What if the New England Patriots go defense in the top 10 of the 2025 NFL Draft?

That’s the possibility explored by ESPN draft analyst Matt Miller in his latest mock draft projection Thursday. While the Patriots have glaring needs at wide receiver and offensive tackle, Miller had them taking a cornerback -- Michigan’s Will Johnson.

Here’s Miller’s analysis of his projection of New England landing Johnson with the No. 6 pick:

“Left tackle is an important need for the Patriots, but the offensive tackle class isn’t strong beyond Kelvin Banks Jr.