Patriots Mock Draft 2026: Final 7-Round Edition Focuses on New England's Defense originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
After making a run to the Super Bowl, the Patriots will enter the 2026 NFL Draft with 11 total picks. While the team's immediate priority is building on the success of the 2025 campaign by adding young talent to the roster, it's impossible to ignore the recent rumors surrounding a potential deal involving a star wide receiver.
Conversations around A.J. Brown have intensified with reports indicating that a deal with the Eagles is likely to materialize after June 1 because of salary cap considerations. If the Pats truly believe that they will acquire Brown this summer, they can shift their focus to other positions during the draft.
With that context in mind, let's get into a final mock draft before the clock starts ticking.
Mar 1, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Clemson offensive lineman Blake Miller (OL35) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
For the Patriots, this isn't just about drafting a tackle; it's about drafting an insurance policy for the franchise's future. Drake Maye's MVP-caliber season proved that he has an extremely high ceiling, but it also showed that his career won't last very long if he isn't protected.
Miller enters the league after logging more than 3,700 career snaps at Clemson. He is a Day 1 stabilizer who set a school record with 54 straight starts.
Ultimately, this pick signals a refusal to reach. Rather than settling for a receiver from Tier 2, New England is choosing a solid anchor.
Scott occupied the nickel spot at Miami, but he functioned as a multi-level defensive weapon. His performance throughout Miami's playoff run solidified his reputation as a big-game player who thrives under pressure.
Scott's extensive experience could make him a Day 1 starter. His blazing speed and technical discipline should immediately provide a boost for the New England secondary.
Height's appeal lies in a rare athletic profile that suggests he is only scratching the surface of his potential. At 6-3 and 240 pounds, he posted an eye-popping 39-inch vertical jump and a 1.63-second 10-yard split.
While he is currently viewed as a developmental prospect who needs to add bulk to his frame, his bend allows him to close on quarterbacks with terrifying speed. He is a high-motor edge rusher who already possesses the lateral fluidity to survive at the next level.
A four-year starter and team captain at Kansas State, Payne is a high-floor defender. Standing at 6-3 and 208 pounds with a massive wingspan, he has the frame to match up with bigger tight ends and receivers.
While he might not have the elite twitch of a nickel corner, his 4.40 speed and disciplined eyes prevent him from being easily beat over the top. For a team that values versatility and pre-snap communication, Payne is an ideal developmental safety.
Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Missouri wideout Kevin Coleman (WO15) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Coleman spent the 2025 season as the focal point of the Missouri offense, totaling 66 receptions and 732 yards. The Patriots lack a slot receiver, giving Coleman a path to be a contributor.
Beyond his utility as a receiver, he gives New England a dangerous option in the return game. He returned a punt for a touchdown averaged more than 12 yards per return in 2025.
Standing at a towering 6-8 and weighing 330 pounds, Harris was a monster last season, racking up 58 tackles, nine tackles for a loss and three sacks. His sheer size makes him a natural wall against the run, and he has shown a knack for using his reach to disrupt the game in other ways, blocking multiple kicks during his college career.
While there are flaws to his game that make him a long-term project, Harris has a high ceiling. If the Patriots can refine his technique and help him maximize his physical tools, Harris could become a disruptive force.
A standout for an Ole Miss offense that ranked among the most explosive in the country, Wright finished his 2025 campaign with 39 receptions for 635 yards and five touchdowns. After starting his career at Virginia Tech, Wright's transition to Lane Kiffin's system allowed him to showcase a versatile skill set.