Why Texas A & M WR KC Concepcion makes sense for the Patriots at No. 31

This month, MassLive will look at five options that make sense for the Patriots in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Mike Vrabel’s team holds the No. 31 pick. If they don’t trade up or down, here’s one of the most realistic choices in that spot.

KC CONCEPCION, WR, Texas A&M

Concepcion, a transfer from NC State, is a gifted pass catcher and dynamic playmaker who is dangerous with the ball in his hands.

He’s considered a first round prospect in the upcoming NFL draft.

He caught 61 passes for 919 yards with nine touchdowns last season. He’s typically plays in the slot but can also line up outside.

Wrote NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein: “Concepcion’s ability to quickly uncover should be very appealing to teams with spotty protection and a young quarterback.”

He received first-team All-SEC honors as a wide receiver, all-purpose player and return specialist. He also won the Paul Hornung Award as the nation’s most versatile player.

Why the pick makes sense: He’s one of the best route runners in the draft, has the ability to get open quickly and immediately become one of Drake Maye’s primary go-to-guys.

He’s explosive, a yards after catch machine who has the traits to be a game-changer in Josh McDaniels’ offense. He’s a nightmare against man coverage, something the Patriots desperately need.

Along with being a potential No. 1 receiver, Concepcion also has special teams chops, returning two punts for touchdowns with the Aggies this past season.

Why it doesn’t: If the Patriots are intent on landing A.J. Brown post June 1, which remains a good bet, they might not be inclined to use a first-round pick in the draft on a receiver. That might not preclude them from selecting a receiver, but they might be more inclined to fill bigger holes at edge rusher or the offensive line instead.

Concepcion has also had a problem with drops, with 19 over three seasons.

More Patriots Content

• Patriots trade veteran linebacker to Texans instead of releasing him
• Projected No. 1 pick won’t attend upcoming NFL Draft in person
• Patriots release another veteran linebacker
• Patriots 7-round mock draft 1.0 | Karen Guregian

Read the original article on MassLive. Add MassLive as a Preferred Source by clicking here.