For the second year in a row, Bill Belichick put together an uncharacteristically poor draft. The one thing that saves this draft class from being a compete disaster is the acquisition of Randy Moss for a 4th round selection. Based on the number of picks they had, however, you have to wonder how they didn't manage to land more impact players in the draft. Meriweather should be an impact player and he may even see time at both corner and safety early in his career. Kareem Brown isn't going to any Pro Bowls, but he is a versatile lineman and should provide some quality depth on their defensive line. They reached for nearly each and every one of their remaining draft picks. Oldenburg, Rogers, and Richardson all could have easily gone undrafted. I like the way Rogers plays the game, but he doesn't have the athleticism to be much more than backup linebacker in their system after playing defensive end in college. Hairston is a slippery running back, and he figures to become their next Kevin Faulk. Oldenburg, Hilliard and Elgin could provide some much needed depth on the offensive line, but there were better players available. I like the pick of Oscar Lua. He lost playing time his senior year to Rey Maualuga, but he has the talent to make it at the next level. Had they not traded for Moss, I would be inclined to give them a much lower grade, but you have to take the trades into account when grading the teams.
Grade: C

I like the Laurence Maroney pick, although I was surprised to see that they had him higher on their draft board than DeAngelo Williams. Chad Jackson is an absolute steal in the 2nd round. He could very well turn out to be the best receiver of this class. David Thomas is one of the most overrated player in the draft. He looks like more of an H-back, a position that really isn't a part of the current Patriots offense. Same goes for Garret Mills, who played tight end in college. Where do these guys fit into their crowded depth chart of tight ends? The bigger questions: what did they see in Gostkowski that made him a 4th round pick? I didn't think he would even get drafted. He's got a great leg, but isn't consistent and they're in for a surprise if they think he can replace Vinatieri. O'Callaghan is a solid, but unspectacular player and is a steal with the 136th selection. LeKevin Smith is the best of their late round picks. He is a strong, physical interior lineman that will be a solid backup at nose tackle.
Grade: B-