With The First Pick
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New England Patriots: In-Depth 2017 NFL Draft Review

By Jon Dove

Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick talks with the media after Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick talks with the media after Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Youngstown defensive end Derek Rivers speaks to the media during the 2017 combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 4, 2017; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Youngstown defensive end Derek Rivers speaks to the media during the 2017 combine at Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Depth Chart Impact

The Patriots 2017 draft picks were more about adding depth and potential. They really didn’t add anyone who should immediately compete for a starting job. However, I wouldn’t be surprised to see Derek Rivers see some early action.

Rivers is a long and highly athletic edge defender. He uses his length and raw power to generate pressure on the quarterback. Rivers features the build needed to play along the line of scrimmage at defensive end or at outside linebacker.

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The big question mark is how long it will take for him to adjust to NFL competition. It’s a whole new ball game going against NFL-level talent than what he saw while at Youngstown State.

Look for him to be among a rotation that includes Kony Ealy, Trey Flowers, Lawrence Guy, Geneo Grissom and Rob Ninkovich. Rivers has as much raw talent as anyone in this group. The key will be for him to pick up the defense and adjust to the competition.

Bill Belichick is known for putting his defenders in position to succeed. He obviously has a plan for Rivers and hopes to unleash him on the league.

Antonio Garcia could also see some action should the offensive line suffer an injury. He’s versatile enough to play either tackle position and guard.

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