2018 NFL Mock Draft: Impact of recent trades and signings
The New England Patriots have no shortage of choices to make here, but the top two possibilities are at quarterback and cornerback. Tom Brady is soon to be 41 years of age, Jimmy Garoppolo and Jacoby Brisset have both been traded, and Malcolm Butler recently signed elsewhere.
The talent at cornerback is certainly invigorating, but I’m finding it hard to justify passing on the opportunity to draft and groom Mason Rudolph behind Brady.
One can complain about Rudolph’s inexperience under center, but that’s exactly why this pick makes sense. He isn’t a threat to Brady’s job security, which should make the five-time Super Bowl champion a more willing mentor.
Even if Brady declines the opportunity to mentor a young quarterback, the Patriots are perfectly equipped to help Rudolph realize his Pro Bowl potential.
Rudolph has a big arm and impressive accuracy on his throws, but the concerns about his college system are still relevant. For New England, having time to remake a quarterback with natural talent is the type of project that Bill Belichick would likely enjoy.
New England has options at cornerback if it decides to pursue that route, but Rudolph has natural talent and untapped potential that the organization can explore.