For The Love Of Day 3

The 2026 draft class has been overshadowed by the looming 2027 class for long enough. For the last 3 years, it’s all anyone wants to compare classes to. 2027 this, 2027 that. We get it… it’s said to be an elite class, star-studded, blue chips galore, and even experts fail to truly talk about a lot of the great talent throughout THIS draft. Instead, it’s just more comments that devalue these current prospects. It’s not fair, and frankly, it’s kind of lazy. The class that’s here is the class we have to work with, but I think it’s a lot better than it truly gets credit for. For the Patriots, we couldn’t ask for a better class to help us in all primary areas of need.

No, this is NOT the sexiest class. This isn’t the star-studded elite blue-chip talent everywhere class that excites the casual fan. I will tell you what I feel learning about a lot of the work ethic and personalities of guys all throughout this class over the last year. There are so many guys that when they hear their name selected, will be so motivated, they will bust their ass and give everything they have for whatever team that selects them… you’re probably thinking “well, Tyler, everyone that gets drafted should automatically do that they’re football players”. My response to that: No, you’re not picking up what I’m putting down. They hear the same thing we keep hearing, “this class isn’t that good”, “lack of talent”, “2027”. They hear that and it’s only adding to the fire inside these guys collectively to prove them dead wrong. There’s a ton of talent in this class. There are guys that will become contributors for teams for a long time coming rather in big featured roles, or involved in a heavy rotation. This is your blue-collar guy draft class, the hard hat and lunch pail, let’s get to f*cking work class! There’s some Dawgs here!

When Day 3 comes, rather you’re watching all day or you’re just gonna see the results after, I hope this blog gives you players you are excited for or even eager for the Patriots to select leading up to it.

I’m gonna give you some guys that don’t get enough love, enough recognition, that I think should be on Patriots fans’ radar. It’s not a rankings list, so don’t focus on the order of each guy listed. This is just recognition. I separated by position for you and tried to make a condensed list of those groups who I really like and would be on board with the decision to take them.

There are many others I’d love to include. I’m leaving off. I really, really wish I could include more. For the sake of you, the readers’ time, I need a short, simple list at each position that interests you. I hope you enjoy it and hope you find some guys here you root for us to select.

Defense

Edge

Mikail Kamara - Indiana 6’1 262 lbs

What a performance from Kamara this last season for the national champions at Indiana University. Kamara was a dawg! A game changer, and major disruptor, not just in the playoffs but all season. The last 2 months, I couldn’t wrap my head around how he’s drastically fallen. Maybe it’s due to size concerns, numerous shoulder injuries he suffered early in college. What I do know is the work ethic is top-tier. He’s got areas to improve on, and his size limitation will probably prevent him from being a primary guy, but as a rotation piece, this dude is all heart, relentless, and leaves it out on the field. Patriots aspects he can provide immediate assistance in the pass rush with his versatile move-set, physicality can help shed off blocks in the run game to pursue the rusher, and can help on special teams as seen in the national championship with that blocked punt that saved a ton of momentum for Indiana. A lot of upside to Kamara as a key contributor in a rotation.

Aidan Hubbard - Northwestern 6’4 255 lbs

Hubbard is balls to the wall. He absolutely excites me watching him play. This kid just shows so much intensity and ruthless aggression that I get excited every single time he hits someone when I’m just trying to be impartial. Half the time I don’t know how he does it, a lot of it isn’t pretty, not the cleanest or traditional, but he is so nasty in what he does that I really appreciate his effort and finish on plays. His footwork is all over the place, and he’s not the most consistent tackler. I think there is a ton of upside to him; he keeps his head down, stays quiet, and is ready to get to work. Will he be an every-down DE/edge? Who’s really to say? For what I do foresee is a guy you can trust in a rotation to go out there and make something happen.

Nyjalik Kelly - UCF 6’5 249 lbs

It seems a majority has fallen in love with Malachi Lawrence, and for good reason. His counterpart, Nyjalik Kelly, on the other hand, isn’t talked about nearly enough. The size and athleticism are there, the intensity and violence they crave. The ability to counter off blocks to be a presence in the run game, as well as bring consistent pressure and get to the QB. Good arsenal of moves and ability to generate fumbles on defense. Sack production wasn’t as expected this past season, but it shows enough on film that the right system, he can absolutely be a contributor.

Max Llewellyn - Iowa 6’5 258 lbs

The spin doctor. Max Llewellyn brings great athleticism and strength to his play style. He has a move set that still needs to be refined when getting passed tackles but has mastered the inside spin move to throw tackles off their game. When he hits that, it’s clean and effective and helps him create a clear path to the QB. Not the best run defender, an inconsistent tackler, his hand techniques are still a work in progress, and I think he struggles to make the right counter moves when initially stopped by a tackle. He’s worth developing.

Michael Heldman - Central Michigan 6’4 260 lbs

One of the small school standouts. Michael Heldman is a relentless athlete and a very smart player. His ability to show patience in play action, his preparation against opponents is very evident on film. He has the ability to be a constant force to shed blocks and a really solid pass rush rate. Obviously, you have to take the competition level into account for the competition level he faced. There is a lot to like about him on the field and as a leader that he displayed in numerous interviews as well as on the sideline hyping his team up. Someone I can see us taking a shot on, develop, and prepare him against NFL competition.

Keyshawn James-Newby - New Mexico 6’2 244 lbs

Another small school standout, KJN balled out with the 3rd highest pressure rate of all edges in 2025. He stood out in the Shrine Bowl where he first made an impression on me, effortlessly running through drills showing his speed, rushing ability, his bend, burst, and counter attacks. Someone that is being really slept on throughout this draft process. He’s not the best flat-out run defender, but he has excellent patience and change of direction against play action and option runs. Competition level may cause teams to overlook his collegiate production, but there’s absolutely something to work with in his play style.

DT

Landon Robinson - Navy 6’ 287 lbs

Shrine Bowl standout, the man believed to be the next Aaron Darnold…. Well, that may be a stretch, but he sure does have a lot of resemblance in his game. Being a smaller DT, he shows a lot of great skill, power, and viciousness that teams will love. Block shedding ability to assist in his pass rush and run stops, willing to fill gaps against the run to assist his teammates. Explosive athlete, powerful, daring to take on anyone and even double teams and still have an effect on the play, a very smart player. He’s not going to be a Tonga replacement if we were to select him, but he is someone I think being involved in our D-line rotation would help make an impact whenever his numbers are called upon.

Cole Brevard - Texas 6’2 346 lbs

Nose tackles are all the way back! The meaty hoss Cole Brevard is one to keep in mind for the back half of the draft. With Tonga leaving to sign with the Chiefs after failed extension talks, it looks like we may need someone to help us fill some gaps against the run and help close out lanes. He isn’t the greatest pass rusher, could be an area to improve on, and at times double teams flat out eliminate him from plays. As a run defender, he’s someone that can help in the red zone and 3rd/4th and short situations to help the Pats get a much-needed stop. He is not my first choice for this position, but I think in the right situation, surrounded by talent, I think he can shine in his opportunities.

Nick Barrett - South Carolina 6’3 322 lbs

In terms of competition level faced, Barrett is not being discussed enough. Strong at the point of attack, plays low, has high motor, is quick off the line, explosive, and has violent hands. He is not the best pass rusher, that could be developed in time (if he were to be selected by the Patriots) surrounded by the vets and talent around him to help him develop that aspect of his game. He’s a stout, powerful run-stopping NT that I think would be an excellent Tonga replacement long term.

Donte Corleone - Cincinnati 6’1 335 lbs

The Godfather, with a nickname like that, I don’t need to give a summary. Someone I had hoped declared in last year’s class, returned, and unfortunately did not meet expectations, hurting his stock. There’s a lot to like, such as his constantly running motor, his contact balance, and ability to stay upright, his hand placement and strength to control the blockers’ hands out of place. He’s faster than his size shows, which allows him to change direction at a better rate than most with his frame. Smart player. Matches the violence we seek. The Godfather as a Patriot would be a good Tonga replacement.

LB

Bryce Boettcher - Oregon 6’2 232 lbs

One of my favorite players in the class that fits the Vrabel guy characteristics we’re looking for. I debate back and forth if he lands on Day 3, but for the sake of this, I will say he’s an early Day 3 LB option. Leader on the field, intensity, high iq, versatile in coverage, and in the run game. Also showed willingness to contribute in special teams. Long term, could be a green dot guy taking over Spillane in that regard with his pre-snap awareness and communication to his teammates. Was drafted to play baseball but stuck with his true passion in football and is one of the better well-rounded LBs in the class. As a Kyle Louis guy, he is my second favorite option for us at LB.

Lander Barton - Utah 6’4 240 lbs

Well-rounded LB with size, length, and athleticism. He plays fast, downhill, and isn’t afraid to meet ball carriers head-on. There are flashes where he looks like a complete difference-maker, especially when he’s diagnosing quickly and attacking gaps. Not the most consistent tackler, not the most reliable in coverage, and with tendencies to over-pursuit. Barton also had reps at TE for Utah playing more of an H role, something he shares in common with Mike Vrabel.

Red Murdock - Buffalo 6’1 240 lbs

One of the most slept-on players in the class. Red Murdock brings that throwback linebacker mentality. Physical, tough, and loves contact. He’s at his best playing downhill and attacking the run, where his strength and willingness to take on blocks really stand out. He is not someone we can fully rely on in coverage; he doesn’t have fluid hips for it, he’s more of a Tavai-style player. He’s consistent in what he is good at, blitzing and shedding blocks, excellent tackler, forces fumbles, reads the offense well. He gives you that all 4 quarters.

CB

Devon Marshall - NC State 5’11 194 lbs

Really found his stride this year. Led all of college football in pass breakups/deflections with 15 total. I’ve previously referred to him as the Jack Jones/JC Jackson of PBU. He may not always come up with the INT, but he’s frequently making the plays to prevent anything from happening. Smart player with man/zone flexibility. Local kid from Boston. A lot to like, especially his willingness to play anywhere to help the team, as stated in a few interviews. Good depth potential starter down the road.

Charles Demmings - Stephen F. Austin 6’1 190 lbs

Small school standout Charles Demmings has consistently improved over the years. Finalizing his college career with his best season, where he had 4 interceptions and only 18 receptions allowed. He’s best in press man coverage, can stick to receivers like glue. Unfortunately, there’s not enough evidence of him handling it best against tougher competition. The traits he’s shown on film are there. The desire to get better was proven since his awful sophomore season.

Tacario Davis - Washington 6’4 194 lbs/Ephesians Prysock - Washington 6’3 196 lbs

To avoid sounding like a copy and paste for two similar prospects, I’m going to joint both Washington corners together here. Similar in size, similar in scheme flexibility (man/zone). The tall athletic corner duo has a lot of upside to both of them. Both previously from Arizona University made the switch to Washington University. I prefer Tacario Davis a bit more. I think he’s more natural at his position, a great glue mirroring receiver. I like what I see from him in press coverage. Prysock, you get more versatility and willingness in the run game. I just think comparing the two, Davis stands out a bit more in the actual coverage aspect. Both are very handsy and physical and draw up a lot of penalties. Both struggle against twitchy receivers. You really can’t go wrong with either one.

Andre Fuller - Toledo 6’1 200 lbs

Physical zone corner that makes his presence known, combating with receivers and stopping the run. He is definitely a player in need of refinement and perfecting in some areas of his game, especially if asked to do man coverage, and his grabbiness in coverage at times. He resembles a physical playstyle that shows similarities to a younger Carlton Davis. Fuller is confident in his approach, especially against the competition level he faced. If he can make the needed improvements and have the same fearless physicality he used at Toledo at the NFL level, he can absolutely be a major contributor. I just don’t think he’s quite there yet.

Safety

Bud Clark - TCU 6’2 190 lbs

I’m skeptical if he will fall into Day 3, but there is a lot to like about Bud Clark. A 3-time captain, man/zone flexibility, fast straight-line speed, eager to disrupt passes by undercutting routes to make the play, good football IQ, 15 career interceptions. He does have a significant injury history, being hurt 3 seasons in his career. His tackling did take a dip this year. Ultimately, the good of Bud Clark absolutely outweighs the bad; his scheme versatility and IQ would be a benefit to handle whatever is asked of him. As someone to potentially be an understudy of Byard, I like this option a lot if he’s available early in Day 3.

Cole Wiseniewski - Texas Tech 6’4 220 lbs

Former LB turned safety, Cole has a good thing going with him as a box safety. Excellent size, consistent tackler, good ball tracking ability, great instincts in the run game, and a high IQ. He’s dealt with a fair share of injuries; he is pretty grabby in coverage. In terms of Patriots fit, if we are looking to incorporate a box safety again after departing from Dugger and Peppers, he may be a good option later in the draft. I doubt that is a direction we’d look to go to; probably focus more into a deep safety or someone with more proven versatility early on.

Jalen Husky - Maryland 6’2 201 lbs

A captain for Maryland and the team’s defensive player of the year. Husky is a great leader, with excellent ball skills snagging 11 interceptions in his collegiate career. With previously being a corner turned safety he’s able to line up numerous parts of the field, but is best suited having to line up against TEs and slot receivers. Not afraid to get his hands dirty and make an impact in the run game. He’s not the most gifted athlete, not the fastest guy, doesn’t have the best hip fluidity. He is a damn good football player, with great instincts, and proven leadership that Vrabel likes to see, an ability to buy in and lead by example on and off the field. Someone worth noting that isn’t getting the attention I feel he deserves and would like to see him in a Patriots uniform.

Jalen Stroman - Notre Dame 6’1 201 lbs

If we want to introduce violence in our secondary, Stroman is a name to watch. He loves to hit people, he’s not afraid to tangle with blockers and get to the ball carrier. He’s a smart, physical, intense player that has special teams versatility. He is best in zone coverage where he’s able to lock in on those instincts, reading a QBs eyes and let the play come to him to be a disrupter.  He is not the best in man coverage, he’s very grabby and isn’t able to consistently stay with glued to a receiver. You are purely relying on his zone capabilities. Though his intensity is fun to watch, he can be a little sloppy with his tackle technique. I love the special teams versatility, I love the intensity he brings every rep, and I feel he’s someone worth considering as depth later on in day 3.

Offense

IOL

Jeremiah Wright - RG Auburn 6’5 331 lbs

With rumors of a Mike Onwenu move possibly looming after the outstanding year he had in 2025. If instead of earlier they could look to day 3 option Jeremiah Wright, very similar in play style and intensity. After standing out at the Senior Bowl showcasing his large frame, his strong base and power, and ability to take on some standout prospects, we brought him for a 30 visit. He’s not the best athlete, and he will be a 25 year old rookie. With Onwenu on his final year of his contract, and our need for depth. Wright is definitely worth considering potentially early day 3.

Logan Taylor - RG/T Boston College 6’6 314 lbs

Taylor has tackle and guard versatility, played left tackle before moving inside. It’s said he’s a multi position lineman who can play anywhere on the line including center, but has only played guard and tackle in games. He’s physical and plays violent, he’s not the greatest athlete but in terms of positional versatility it’s something for the Patriots to consider. The Patriots have attended numerous Boston College pro days without selecting a player from BC in quite some time Ron Brace being the last one back in 2009. Instead of treating their pro days as show and tell, with the relationships Vrabel and Doug Marrone have there, it’s time to take a BC kid and Taylor would be a great depth piece for us early/mid Day 3.

Micah Morris - LG Georgia 6’5 334 lbs

It’s head scratching Morris is not being talked about more. He has the prototypical build at guard, he does a lot of things right and was one of the better graded guards last season. Morris has great technique utilizing bend and ability to keep guys in the phone booth with his pure strength. If he’s able to box you in more times than not he’s winning the rep. Equally performed well in run and pass plays. He does overset and struggle against speed rushers, he has had some trouble redirecting against stunts. The issues he displayed in college are pretty easy fixes with repetition, and preparation on teams who utilizes a lot of stunts. If the plan is Vera-Tucker is to be slotted at left guard, Morris would be an excellent back up in case the frequently injured AVT has anything derail his season. Overall a great depth option worth selecting with potential to be a starter, probably early to mid Day 3.

Kobe Baynes - RG Kansas 6’4 315 lbs

Another guard I’m really surprised isn’t getting the attention I think he deserves. Kobe Baynes is violence personified. He plays through the whistle non stop fight in his play with his excellent hand techniques. He rarely allowed pressures, and was one of the highest graded guards. Excellent run blocker as well and brings the same intensity. He’s never really had any injury concerns been available for them. Why he’s not considered higher beats the hell out of me. So I’ll give him his flowers here.

OT

Travis Burke - Memphis 6’9 325 lbs RT

Size and skill are what I think about. It’s usually one or the other but Burke posses a natural feel for the position. Best suited at RT but has shown ability to play both sides. His footwork isn’t the best and he’s not the best dealing with speed rushers. I will say this instead of investing at tackle in round 1 maybe consider a guy like him who posses a mean streak/physicality, and shows real potential to his game to develop behind Moses. As it stands at the time of writing this Burke has the second most visits out of all prospects, teams are really intrigued by his upside. Let’s maybe consider taking him before someone else.

Aamil Wagner - Notre Dame 6’5 306 lbs RT

His stock took a massive hit after week 1 vs Miami getting eaten alive by Reuben Bain, but throughout the remainder of the season Wagner was able to quietly recover and have a pretty decent season. Rather teams will view him as potential starter or a reliable backup is hard to gage. Only allowing 3 sacks total in his career at Notre Dame, he’s a pretty solid pass blocking RT.

Keagan Trost - Missouri 6’4 311lbs Swing Tackle/ Guard.

The highest graded tackle according to PFF. Here’s the kicker below 32 inch arms. Teams will view him as a guard more than likely, but I’m a big proponent of with your arm length were you able to maximize your abilities around your deficiency’s? Trost absolutely did just that. If you’re able to look past measurements and just watch him perform on the field, you see absolutely why he earned those grades, if you’re asking me if he should move inside over his arm length my response is F*** that. This dude can play tackle.

PJ Williams - SMU 6’5 313 lbs RT

A really athletic tackle who displays it on the field especially helping in the run game. Williams has some things to improve on when he makes it to the NFL but there’s a ton of upside to what he has shown. He was really solid getting to the second level of his blocks, and even though part of his issues are his hand placement in pass blocking, he was good at that as well. Only allowing 2 sacks 5 penalties, and 16 pressures. He’s not a guy I’d throw out there right away but with good coaching in a few years I’d love to see him continue to develop into a better tackle.

Markell Bell - Miami 6’9 340lbs

Bell is one of those under-the-radar guys who just keeps showing up on tape. He’s physical, plays with a motor, and doesn’t shy away from contact. What stands out most is his size, his toughness and willingness to do the dirty work. Played left tackle at Miami, had a pretty good season. He goes to the Senior Bowl and was the victim of Derrick Moores Viral clip knocking him to the ground. What I loved about him was how he bounced back at the Senior Bowl, being positioned all over the line, he stood out more and looked the most comfortable playing RT. If he refines his technique a bit more, he’s the type of player we can hope develops and turns into the Moses successor.

Kage Casey - Boise St 6’5 310lbs

Casey feels like a classic Boise State product—tough, disciplined, and fundamentally sound. He’s not going to wow you with elite traits, but he plays smart and rarely makes mistakes. Strong in his assignments and shows good awareness against stunts, late blitzes, and predicting an edges approach facing him. Ceiling might not be sky high, but the floor is solid. The kind of guy that earns a role and keeps it. He may turn into a guard, he may just be a solid reliable depth tackle prospect.

TE

Tanner Koziol - Houston 6’7 247 lbs

My favorite tight end in the class. Tanner Koziol and his time at Ball State was really impressive with 94 receptions, 839 yards 8TDs the offense ran through him. He bet on himself and made an impact for the Houston Cougars with 74 receptions 727 yards 6TDs once again the offense ran through him. Tanner's size and athleticism is unique for this tight end class. Though his size is impressive it's what he does with the football that truly stands out. He's excellent in contested catches. a big target with a great catch radius for Drake to sling it to in the redzone or hit him in the open field and watch him go. Not afraid of contact, embraces it. He is on the thinner side compared to what we currently have at Tight end, adding some muscle mass and show more ability in the blocking game I believe he can be a matchup nightmare for defenders, and a reliable target for Drake, and a major playmaker in McDaniels offense. With the team looking to get younger at the position, him opposite Henry or even with Hooper (if he were to return) could help him refine his game even further and help make him the next great Patriot TE, with his freakish size and athleticism it’s familiar territory for Patriots fans to be excited about in a Tight end like Koziol. Join the Koziol Express now!

Dae’quan Wright - Ole Miss 6’4 246 lbs

Wright brings a nice blend of size and athleticism to the position. He flashes as a receiving threat and can stretch the field more than your typical tight end. Really good catch radius, and makes plays after the catch. Still putting it all together, especially as a blocker, but the upside is there. Probably round 4 range.

John Michael Gillenborg - Wyoming 6’6 249 lbs

Gyllenborg is more of your traditional inline tight end. He’s reliable, tough, and does the little things right. Not going to be a huge volume receiver, but he blocks, he competes, and he plays his role. He has really good athleticism for his size and is a consistent catcher just didn’t see the volume. Worth considering in round 5.

R.J. Maryland - SMU 6’4 236 lbs

Smooth mover with strong receiving ability. Creates after the catch and can line up all over. Modern TE traits. Consistency will be key. Not a ton of production but his athleticism is absolutely seen on film. Not the biggest TE prospect so blocking at the NFL level is really up in the air.

Dallen Bentley - Utah 6’4 264 lbs

Physical, gritty, and built for the trenches. Brings toughness and effort as a blocker. Really showed his receiving talents this season with 48 receptions 620 yards and 6 TDS. He has plenty of upside and fits that more traditional tight end with a lot of upside to explore entering the next level as a receiver.

Dan Villari - Syracuse 6’4 245 lbs

Villari is just a football player. Former QB background shows up with how he understands the game and finds space. He’s versatile, can move around the formation, and gives you some gadget flexibility. Not a polished tight end yet, but intriguing chess piece and one hell of an athlete.

WR

Camden Brown - Georgia Southern 6’2 200lbs

Brown has that vertical element to his game. He can stretch the field and make plays downfield, which immediately gives him value. Still needs to round out his route tree, but the big-play ability is there and hard to ignore.

Tyren Montgomery- John Carroll 5’11 190lbs

Small school guy who made noise at the Senior Bowl that tells you a lot. A former basketball player turned football really only started playing football 2 years ago. He’s got juice, competes hard, and didn’t look out of place against better competition. Route running and consistency will determine how far he goes, but he helped himself in a big way. Josh McDaniels also is an alumni from John Carroll which is noteworthy.

Eric McAllister - TCU 6’3 205 lbs

McAllister is a big-bodied receiver who can win contested catches. He’s a red zone type target with a large catch radius. Not a burner, but he knows how to use his size to his advantage. Solid possession receiver upside. Off field issues.

Eli Heidenrich - Navy 6’ 206 lbs

Swiss Army knife type. You can line him up all over the place offense and defense and he’ll find a way to contribute. Not elite in one area, but does a lot of things well. Those guys tend to carve out roles because of versatility alone. A player I can see Josh McDaniels having a lot of fun designing plays for.

Chase Roberts - BYU 6’4 209 lbs

If Alec Pierce and Mack Hollins merged as one is a good way to put it. He’s got size, can win downfield, and plays physical. Tracks the ball well and can make tough catches all over the field. With Hollins on his final deal I think we can explore Roberts upside and utilize him in a similar fashion.

Daniel Sobkowicz - Illinois State 6’3 205 lbs

Another smaller school receiver with some intrigue. He produces, plays hard, and shows good instincts. Level of competition is the big question, but the traits are worth a look.

RB

Adam Randall - Clemson 6’2 229 lbs

Randall brings versatility with legit special teams value, which always helps your chances early. He runs hard, contributes in multiple phases, and does the little things. A receiver converted RB. Not a feature back, but useful piece to have in a variety of ways. I’d see him as an excellent Gibson replacement.

Desmond Reid - Pitt 5’8 174 lbs

Reid is your classic third down weapon. Quick, explosive, and dangerous in space. He can catch out of the backfield and create mismatches against linebackers. Not built for heavy volume, but very effective in his role.

Robert Henry - UTSA 5’9 205lbs

Henry had a monster season, plain and simple. He carried the load and produced at a high level. Strong runner with good vision and toughness. The question will be how that translates, but the production is hard to ignore.

Terion Stewart - Virginia Tech 5’9 223 lbs

Stewart runs with power and intent. He’s physical, finishes runs, and doesn’t go down easy. Brings that downhill presence that can wear on defenses. Not the most dynamic, but he sets a tone. Would be excellent in goal line situations.