Patriots Predicted To Trade Three Draft Picks For 'Tight End Of The Future'

University of Georgia tight end Oscar Delp

Patriots Predicted To Trade Three Draft Picks For 'Tight End Of The Future' originally appeared on NESN. Add NESN as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

The New England Patriots have 11 picks in this year's NFL Draft, and they could use some of them to move up in the later rounds.

The Patriots have many needs that they could address in the draft, and tight end may be an underrated one. The Patriots signed a blocking tight end in Julian Hill, but they could be looking to draft Hunter Henry's eventual replacement. Henry is going into the final year of his deal, and drafting his replacement now could be smart.

98.5 The Sports Hub's Alex Barth predicted the Patriots would trade three draft picks to help move up in the third round and select University of Georgia tight end, Oscar Delp. Barth predicted this deal with the Atlanta Falcons to do so:

• Patriots receive: 79th overall pick and 231st overall pick
• Falcons receive: 95th overall pick, 131st overall pick and 198th overall pick

"After moving up, the Patriots hope to get their tight end of the future in Delp," wrote Barth. "A lack of college production (20 catches for 261 yards and a touchdown in 14 games last year) will hurt his draft stock for sure, but he checks a lot of other boxes in terms of size (6-foot-5, 245 pounds), athleticism, and skillset as a well-rounded player who can block as well as catch passes."

Barth did not have the greatest numbers at Georgia. He had 854 yards and nine touchdowns in four seasons, but his performance at the combine indicates he could be a better pass catcher in the NFL if he is given more opportunities. He had an 89 athleticsim score, ranking second among tight ends.

At 6-foot-4, 245 pounds, Delp ran a 4.49-second 40-yard dash at his Pro Day. The Patriots hosted him on a Top 30 visit as well.

More NFL: Adam Schefter Reveals Patriots Have 'Interest' In This Prospect With No. 31 Pick