Patriots Eye Versatile WR, Top OT, and Pass-Rushing Edge in 2026 NFL Draft

New England has the No. 31 overall pick and several needs to address after a Super Bowl loss.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 3:03pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting fragmented football players, draft prospects, and team logos in a palette of navy, crimson, and metallic silver, capturing the complex decision-making process of the NFL draft.The Patriots' draft strategy aims to build a well-rounded roster to support their young quarterback and make another Super Bowl run.Seattle Today

The New England Patriots are looking to build on their Super Bowl appearance last season with a strong 2026 NFL Draft. With the No. 31 overall pick, the team is eyeing options to improve their pass rush, offensive line, and passing game, including versatile wide receiver KC Concepcion, offensive tackle Kaydn Proctor, and edge rusher Zion Young.

Why it matters

The Patriots' defense struggled to generate consistent pressure in the Super Bowl, while the offensive line had issues protecting quarterback Drake Maye. Addressing these areas through the draft could help New England take the next step and win their first championship since 2024.

The details

The Patriots are considering several options with their first-round pick, including Concepcion, a versatile receiver who can line up inside or outside, Proctor, a massive offensive tackle who could solidify the line, and Young, a physical edge rusher who had a breakout season in 2025. The team also has been linked to trade rumors involving wide receiver A.J. Brown, which could be another way to bolster the passing attack.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 23.
  • The Patriots finished the 2025 season with a Super Bowl loss to the Seattle Seahawks.

The players

KC Concepcion

A versatile wide receiver who can play inside or outside and also contributes on special teams, earning the Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile player in college football in 2025.

Kaydn Proctor

A massive offensive tackle prospect at 6-foot-3, 366 pounds who could help solidify the Patriots' offensive line and protect young quarterback Drake Maye.

Zion Young

A physical edge rusher from Missouri who had a breakout 2025 season with 16.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks, addressing a key need for the Patriots' defense.

A.J. Brown

A star wide receiver who has been linked to trade rumors with the Patriots, which could be another way for the team to bolster their passing attack.

Drake Maye

The Patriots' young quarterback who is entering his third season, making it crucial for the team to protect him and give him more weapons in the passing game.

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What they’re saying

“Zion Young is a physical player and has proven he can get to the quarterback, a skill that would benefit this Patriots defense.”

— Mike Vrabel, Head Coach

“If his rookie and sophomore seasons are any indication, [Drake Maye] will be a star in the league for years to come. The focus needs to be on keeping his jersey clean.”

— Shanna McCarriston, NFL Writer

What’s next

The Patriots will have their first-round pick, No. 31 overall, on April 23 during the 2026 NFL Draft. They will look to address key needs on both sides of the ball to build on their Super Bowl appearance last season.

The takeaway

The Patriots have several intriguing options with their first-round pick as they look to take the next step and win their first championship in two years. Addressing the pass rush, offensive line, and passing game will be crucial for New England to get over the hump and capture another Lombardi Trophy.