2026 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Aim for Speedy Tight End on Day 2

Emerson Raymont

Published: April 9, 2026 7:43 PM ET

The 2026 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and the New England Patriots are strategically planning for their selections. Currently, the team has highlighted key areas of need, focusing on depth and youth for the edge defender, offensive tackle, and tight end positions. This mock draft assumes that the Patriots will retain their picks without pursuing a trade for wide receiver A.J. Brown from the Eagles.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Patriots Aim for Speedy Tight End on Day 2

Round 1, Pick No. 31: EDGE Malachi Lawrence, UCF

To kick off their draft, the Patriots are expected to select Malachi Lawrence, an EDGE player from UCF. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 253 pounds, Lawrence demonstrated impressive athleticism at the NFL Scouting Combine. He recorded a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, a 1.59-second 10-yard split, and a 40-inch vertical leap.

20 sacks and 28 tackles for loss in 39 college games.
40 pressures and an 80.1 PFF grade during his senior season.

His potential as a situational edge rusher makes him an appealing choice for the Patriots as they refresh their defense.

Round 2, Pick No. 63: OT Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern

Next, the Patriots are likely to address their offensive line by choosing Caleb Tiernan. Ranked 65th overall, Tiernan’s selection would bolster the team’s tackle depth. He primarily played left tackle in college and also has experience on the right side.

Prototypical size for an NFL tackle; concerns linger regarding his arm length.

With Will Campbell and Morgan Moses as starters, adding Tiernan provides crucial depth as Moses ages.

Round 3, Pick No. 95: TE Oscar Delp, Georgia

As the Patriots seek a speedy tight end, Oscar Delp emerges as a strong candidate. At 6-foot-5 and 245 pounds, he ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash. During his time at Georgia, Delp caught 70 passes for 854 yards and nine touchdowns.

He has the potential to replace veteran Hunter Henry down the line.

Round 4, Pick No. 125: WR Colbie Young, Georgia

In the fourth round, the team may take a chance on wide receiver Colbie Young, who stands 6-foot-5 and weighs 218 pounds. With 116 receptions and 1,437 yards in his college career, Young has big-play potential.

Round 4, Pick No. 131: LB Jack Kelly, BYU

The Patriots will also look to strengthen their linebacking corps with Jack Kelly, a two-time captain at BYU. At 6-foot-2 and 240 pounds, he has recorded impressive stats over the past two seasons.

15 sacks and 23.5 tackles for loss.

Round 5, Pick No. 171: OL Keagen Trost, Missouri

The selection of Keagen Trost is another viable option. Trost has played for multiple teams over seven years. At 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, he allowed only one sack last season.

Round 6, Picks No. 191 to 212

In the later rounds, the Patriots could target several players:

RB Adam Randall (Clemson): A versatile running back with size and speed.
CB Charles Demmings (Stephen F. Austin): A developmental cornerback with great size and 4.41 speed.
TE Will Kacmarek (Ohio State): A blocking tight end who can also catch.
QB Luke Altmyer (Illinois): A potential developmental third quarterback for the roster.
S Cole Wisniewski (Texas Tech): Offers versatility as a safety and linebacker.

This mock draft outlines the potential pathways for the Patriots as they aim to enhance their roster in various key positions. The focus on youth and speed will be vital as they look to compete in the upcoming NFL season.