The 2026 NFL Draft is set to begin, and the New England Patriots are focusing on addressing their biggest needs in their final mock draft. They are projected to select OT Max Iheanachor from Arizona State with their first pick.
Key points
2026 NFL Draft is approaching
New England Patriots final mock draft released
Patriots projected to select OT Max Iheanachor
Focus on addressing biggest team needs
Max IheanachorNew England Patriots
The 2026 NFL Draft is finally here.
And that means it's time for one last mock draft, taking a final look at some of the prospects the New England Patriots can target over the weekend.
So, let's get into it.
Round 1, Pick 31: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
If Max Iheanachor is still on the board when the Patriots are on the clock with the second-to-last pick of the first round, this seems like an easy decision for New England. They need to bring in a starting tackle for the future, planning for when Morgan Moses decides to hang up his cleats. And Iheanachor provides that.
While the Patriots made some moves at the tight end position this offseason, they added Julian Hill and Marshall Lang. But, outside of Hunter Henry, New England needs another target, and Max Klare provides that.
The 6-foot-4, 246-pound tight end finished his college career with 116 catches for 1,329 yards and six touchdowns across three years. But combine him with Drake Maye, as well as a standout offensive coordinator like Josh McDaniels, and he could excel once he enters the league.
Q&A
Who are the New England Patriots targeting in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The New England Patriots are targeting OT Max Iheanachor from Arizona State with their first pick.
What are the biggest needs for the Patriots in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Patriots are focusing on addressing their offensive line and other key positions to strengthen their roster.
When does the 2026 NFL Draft start?
The 2026 NFL Draft is set to begin this weekend.
What position does Max Iheanachor play?
Max Iheanachor plays as an offensive tackle (OT).
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Round 3, Pick 95: EDGE Keyron Crawford, Auburn
It's been said over and over again that edge is a big need for the Patriots in the draft, and Keyron Crawford could fill that, as Eliot Wolf emphasized that they are looking for more speed.
Depth at the linebacker position behind Robert Spillane, Christian Ellis, and K.J. Britt would certainly be nice for the Patriots. Kaleb Elarms-Orr hasn't played football as long as some of the other prospects, making him more of a draft-and-develop pick. He has good athleticism and can get into the open field, but he needs to work on his play recognition.
Round 5, Pick 171: G Jeremiah Wright, Auburn
Guard is another position where the Patriots need depth at, with Ben Brown being the true backup on the roster currently. But, he is also the only center backup the team has as well. Jeremiah Wright would provide New England with a big and strong lineman.
Round 6, Pick 191: RB Kaelon Black, Indiana
In case you haven't noticed, depth is the main focus for the Patriots. And with the Patriots having released Antonio Gibson, they need a true No. 3 back behind Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson. Kaelon Black is a physical running back who fights for yards after contact.
Round 6, Pick 198: S Bishop Fitzgerald, USC
Kevin Byard is only on a one-year deal for the Patriots, so what happens afterwards? They are going to need someone to play with Craig Woodson in the future, and Fitzgerald is an aggressive player who can also help out on special teams.
With the new A.J. Brown news that a trade to the Patriots is "likely" (per ESPN's Adam Schefter), receiver is no longer such a big need. But, they should still be looking to add a receiver at some point, especially considering the number of picks they have. Cyrus Allen had an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl and has the speed to come in and make a splash in training camp.
The Patriots have Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III, but are now without Alex Austin. Charles Woods stepped up last season, but New England should be looking to add more depth at cornerback. Dixon spent some time with a familiar face (Bill Belichick) last season and would benefit from learning in the talented room New England has.
Round 7, Pick 247: QB Joe Fagnano, UConn
The Patriots need a third quarterback on the roster, and looking at a local option such as Joe Fagnano would make a lot of sense. He's a solid passer who finished the 2025 season with 3,448 passing yards and 28 passing touchdowns.
