Head coach Mike Vrabel and the New England Patriots have made it a point of emphasis to build up and improve their defense.
Media personalities around the NFL believe that trend will continue in next year's NFL Draft.
ESPN's Field Yates has predicted that New England will select Clemson Tigers defensive end TJ Parker in the first round of next year's draft. Surprisingly, though, Yates has the selection coming at No. 8 overall.
"Parker brings a blend of versatility and pass-rushing nuance," Yates wrote. "His production speaks for itself -- he forced a Clemson-record six fumbles and had 11 sacks in 2024, and his 12.5 tackles for loss in 2023 were a school record for a true freshman. The Patriots, meanwhile, were last in the NFL in sacks in 2024 (28) and must keep addressing their pass rush. New coach Mike Vrabel will want to be tough on both sides of the line."
Yates hits the nail on the head when discussing Parker, as he is one of the most dominant players in the country. He was a five-star recruit coming out of high school and has proved why he was so coveted by not only Clemson, but many other teams as well.
Parker is one of five Tigers listed in the first round of Yates' mock draft, along with quarterback Cade Klubnik, cornerback Avieon Terrell, defensive linemen Peter Woods and offensive lineman Blake Miller.
Another solid season from Parker could see him jump ahead of his current selected spot of No. 8 overall and he could very well find himself as a consensus top five selection when the draft rolls around.
If he does that, though, it certainly shouldn't be New England that is in the running to draft him that high.
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