The New England Patriots could use a few upgrades in the secondary. That's not a knock against the players currently on the roster; it's just an acknowledgement that it's hard to replace departed cornerbacks Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner. Although New England managed to re-sign safety Devin McCourty and nab corner Bradley Fletcher in free agency, the team's defensive backfield make over is far from over.
In recent weeks, the Pats have been linked to everyone from Marcus Peters to Byron Jones in the first round of the NFL Draft. Here's another name to throw into the mix: Utah safety Eric Rowe. ESPN NFL Draft Insider Mel Kiper Jr. projects the Pats to select Rowe with the last pick in the first round of the draft.
"Bill Belichick can use a versatile talent in the secondary (maybe more than one), and Rowe gives him just that," Kiper wrote. "I'd actually take a hard look at Devin Smith or Eddie Goldman if available here, but Rowe hits a need as the type of player my coach maximizes."
Smith is an intriguing wide receiver prospect to consider. But New England can address that need later on in the draft, possibly with the talented, yet embattled, Dorial Green-Beckham. Goldman has been linked to the Dallas Cowboys, though Jerry Jones may also be hunting for secondary help as well.
The Pats relied on their superior secondary to force teams into third-and-long situations last year. As brilliant as Tom Brady and the offense was (when are they not?), New England's defense played a large role in their Super Bowl run. Rebuilding that strength should be a priority heading into the draft.
The NFL Draft kicks off on April 30.