Patriots Predicted To Add 11-TD TE Who Could Become Drake Maye’s Rob Gronkowski originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Patriots might consider selecting a pass catcher for quarterback Drake Maye in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. In a recent article, Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski highlighted a potential standout player that New England could target.
Sobleski published an intriguing mock draft on Tuesday, featuring every player eligible for this year's draft, as well as those still in college football, regardless of their class year. He highlighted the Patriots' selection of Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq at No. 31.
The good news for the Patriots is that Sadiq is actually part of this year's draft class, and he could be a solid option for New England in the first round if he slips a bit down the board.
"Now that Drake Maye allowed New England Patriots faithful to move beyond Tom Brady, the organization must find its current quarterback his version of Rob Gronkowski," Sobleski wrote. "Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq is something entirely different at the tight end position. He's a rocked-up 6'3", 241-pound prospect with record-setting 4.39-second 40-yard-dash speed and a violent nature as a blocker to bury his opponents whenever the opportunity arises."
"Obviously, Sadiq isn't built like Gronk, but the incoming prospect has his own unique style, with the potential to be something greater at the next level since the Ducks never fully utilized their tight end as an offensive weapon. Furthermore, the Patriots' current tight ends simply lack explosive traits to make a difference in both phases of the game."
Sadiq played three seasons at Oregon, recording 80 receptions for 892 yards and 11 touchdowns, playing a key role in helping the Ducks reach the College Football Playoffs in consecutive seasons.
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