Patriots: 3 non-QB options in 2021 NFL Draft after re-signing Cam Newton

Patrick Surtain II, Cornerback, Alabama

Cornerback is without question a premium position in the NFL, and nowhere is that more the case than in New England. Employing a man-heavy coverage scheme, the Patriots utilize three or more corners on greater than 60 percent of their defensive snaps, with a considerable portion of that coming in the 4-cornerback variety.

This was made possible for the 2020 version of the Patriots by way of an impressive collection of players at the position, namely Stephon Gilmore, J.C. Jackson, Jonathan Jones, and Jason McCourty.

Given the way they deploy their corners, one might assume the Pats would target the position early and often in the draft. However, Patriots brass has selected a corner all of four times over the last six NFL drafts, with two of those picks coming in the form of seventh rounders.

Despite the relative lack of attention in the draft, the team’s cornerback situation has been among the very best in the league. With the four abovementioned regulars firmly entrenched, and the 45th overall selection of the 2019 draft Joejuan Williams waiting in the wings, there was little concern at the position for the team heading into the 2020 season.

However McCourty is set to test the open market, Jackson is a restricted free agent, and Williams has thus far proven to be little more than a situational defender.  Adding further to the uncertainty are the trade rumors that have surrounded Gilmore as his on-field play has waned.

Against this backdrop, the time could be nigh for the Patriots to pull the trigger on a top cornerback prospect with their first pick in the 2021 NFL draft, and the choice fit for the organization could be that of Alabama’s Patrick Surtain.

Aside from boasting what could be seen as the best mix of talent and polish among this year‘s cornerback class, Surtain might also represent the smoothest transition into the Pats’ scheme given his experience within the similar, cover 1-heavy approach favored by Alabama coach Nick Saban.

At 6-foot-2, Surtain would appear to meet the team’s recent preference for taller corners. Combining rare length for the position with the overall physical traits of a top-notch press man NFL corner, he blossomed under the bright lights and among the fierce competition of the SEC dating back to his time as a true freshman starter for the Tide.

While there is no guarantee that Surtain will be available at pick 15, there could be the reason for fans of New England to rejoice if he is.