NFL Writer Names Patriots 'Ideal' Draft Fit That Could Replace K'Lavon Chaisson

Texas A&M defensive lineman Cashius Howell

NFL Writer Names Patriots 'Ideal' Draft Fit That Could Replace K'Lavon Chaisson originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Almost every name that could be considered in the later part of the first round of the NFL draft has been linked to the Patriots in the six days leading up to the event. Brent Sobleski from Bleacher Report believes that one particular player is a perfect fit for New England.

Sobleski outlined his ideal picks for each NFL team in the first round of the draft, suggesting that the Patriots should select Texas A&M pass rusher Cashius Howell.

"Texas A&M's Cashius Howell was one of the nation's finest defenders during the 2025 campaign," Sobleski wrote on Friday. "In face, he became the SEC Defensive Player of the Year after an 11.5-sack performance. But his draft standing has been hurt primarily based on his lack of length."

"The Patriots already proved that arm length and wingspan aren't critical factors in their evaluations after taking left tackle Will Campbell with last year's fourth overall pick. Howell is far too explosive and tenacious as a pass-rusher for the Patriots to pass."

Howell played five seasons of college football, including three at Bowling Green, before transferring to Texas A&M for two additional seasons. Over the course of 56 games, he tallied 35.5 tackles for loss and 27 sacks.