Each day over the next 10 days, this space will focus on one position in the NFL draft by highlighting a prospect in Rounds 2-7 who might fit for the Patriots. With so much attention placed on the first round in mock drafts, "Beyond the first round" focuses on lesser-publicized options beyond the first 32 picks. Today, it's wide receiver.
Second round: Jarvis Landry (LSU)
A team captain, the 5-foot-11 1/2, 205-pound Landry comes out of a pro-style system under former NFL coordinator Cam Cameron. He didn't run well at the NFL combine, followed up by accounting well for himself at his pro day, and is considered a sure-handed, intelligent, savvy route-runner.
Third round: Bruce Ellington (South Carolina), Brandon Coleman (Rutgers)
We'll split the category with a smaller, shiftier type in Ellington (5-foot-9 3/8, 197 pounds) and the bigger-bodied type in Coleman (6-foot-6, 225 pounds). Ellington opened eyes with a 39.5-inch vertical leap, which highlights his athleticism and explosion, and he is viewed as having strong intangibles. Coleman looks the part and has 34-inch arm length, and is also considered to have top-end smarts and intangibles.
Fourth round: Kevin Norwood (Alabama)
The 6-foot-2, 198-pound Norwood has big hands (10 inches) for the position, runs precise routes, and comes from a Nick Saban-led program that has earned the respect of many, including Bill Belichick. He is considered a heady receiver who understands the nuances of the passing game.
Fifth round: T.J. Jones (Notre Dame)
Jones (5-foot-11 5/8, 188 pounds) played in every game over his four-year college career, gets high marks for his route-running, and was a team captain -- all things that figure to appeal to the Patriots.
Sixth round: Jeff Janis (Saginaw Valley State)
With standout production at a lower level of competition, and then impressive testing results such as a 6.64 three-cone drill, Janis (6-foot-2 7/8, 219 pounds) is naturally drawing attention. Assuming he's still on the board at this point, which might not be realistic, he has unique traits worthy of a long look.
Seventh round: Quincy Enunwa (Nebraska)
At this stage in the draft, teams are often looking for one standout trait and with Enunwa it's his physical makeup -- 6-foot-2, 225 pounds. Combine that with him serving as a team captain and having potential versatility as a "move" tight end (an adept receiver and used all over the offensive formation), we could envision the Patriots taking a look.
(Round projections aided by Scouts Inc., NFL.com and independent analysis.)
Previous entries:
2. Tight ends
4. Linebacker/outside linebacker
5. Quarterback