The New England Patriots came within one win of a Super Bowl title last season. That’s not bad for a team that was supposedly still rebuilding. But here’s the thing about being that close: you can’t afford a weak draft class. And according to most early evaluations, the Patriots’ 2026 class was underwhelming. No rookies are projected to make an immediate impact, which is a problem for a roster that thinks it’s ready to win now.
So what does the future look like? Way too early, obviously. But PFF’s mock draft simulator already has the Patriots making seven picks in 2027. And the results are interesting, to say the least.
Round 1, Pick 22: T.J. Moore, WR, Clemson
The Patriots already added A.J. Brown via trade and signed Romeo Doubs in free agency. That’s a major upgrade at receiver. But the simulator says they shouldn’t stop there. Moore is a speed threat with serious route-running ability. Pair him with Brown’s physical style and Drake Maye might finally have the weapons to win that MVP he nearly stole last season without much help.
Round 2, Pick 54: Rasheem Biles, LB, Texas
Here’s where it gets interesting. The Patriots have most of their core locked up long-term, but linebacker depth could become a problem. Christian Elliss is on an expiring deal after next season, and Robert Spillane’s contract has an out after 2026. Biles is one of the best in the country at making plays behind the line of scrimmage. The simulator sees him as the answer to keeping that second level strong.
Round 3, Pick 86: Keon Sabb, S, Alabama
Alabama defensive backs are pretty much a given in the NFL. But Sabb is a little different — he also contributed to Michigan’s national championship run a couple years ago. Versatility is his game. He can line up all over the secondary, which is exactly the kind of chess piece the Patriots love.
Round 4, Pick 120: Bear Alexander, DI, Oregon
Alexander has been around. He won a title at Georgia in 2022, then bounced to USC and now Oregon. The numbers aren’t flashy, but the potential is there. He’s an athlete who can cause problems for interior offensive lines. A fourth-round flier on that kind of talent makes sense.
Round 5, Pick 160: Ray Coney, LB, Texas A&M
The Patriots double up at linebacker here. Coney showed real promise at American University before transferring to Texas A&M, where the coaching staff has big expectations for his senior season. This pick is insurance, plain and simple. If the Patriots lose a veteran linebacker or two, Coney could step in.
Round 6, Pick 192: Aaron Scott Jr., CB, Oregon
Scott hasn’t played much yet. But he has the build of a modern corner — long, athletic, comfortable in press coverage and recovery. He transferred from Ohio State hoping to find more playing time. If he shows out this season, this pick could be a steal.
Round 6, Pick 200: Elijah Rushing, Edge, Oregon
According to the simulator, the Patriots are going hard on Oregon Ducks. Rushing is the third one taken here. He was a five-star recruit out of high school, but the production hasn’t matched the hype yet — three tackles and zero sacks over the last two seasons. This is a pure projection pick. High ceiling, low floor.
Round 7, Pick 256: Avery Johnson, QB, Kansas State
The Patriots don’t need a quarterback of the future. Drake Maye just proved he’s one of the best in the league. But they do need a long-term backup. Johnson has been one of college football’s bigger stars the last couple years, racking up 5,576 yards and 48 touchdowns over three seasons. Late-round developmental quarterback? Worth a swing.
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