2014 NFL Mock Draft Version 2.0 – Post Free Agency Edition

Sep 21, 2013; South Bend, IN, USA; Notre Dame Fighting Irish defensive end Stephon Tuitt (7) sacks Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) in the fourth quarter at Notre Dame Stadium. Notre Dame won 17-13. Mandatory Credit: Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports

29. New England Patriots
Stephon Tuitt
Defensive End, Notre Dame

Previously: Jace Amaro (Tight End, Texas Tech)

Giorgos:

Stephon Tuitt is not a very popular prospect, but he is the kind of player the New England Patriots love to work with. Tuitt is a big guy that looks natural in the 3-4 defensive end position, but could line up at tackle in passing downs. He is good both against the run and as a pass rusher, though his techinque in both areas requires improvement. Despite his great speed for a guy his size, Tuitt lacks a great first step that would make him the nightmare of every offensive line.

Dave:

Jace Amaro has long been mocked to the Patriots, and for good reason. We all know by now what has happened with Aaron Hernandez, and it doesn’t help New England that one of the most talented players in all of the NFL (Rob Gronkowski) is more often in the ice tub than on the field thanks to lingering and recurring injuries. However, Tom Brady can’t be a miracle worker forever and it’s amazing that he made the playoffs despite the product New England put out defensively in 2013.