NFL Draft 2011: Is CB Johnny Patrick a Good Fit for the New England Patriots?

As New England Patriots fans and analysts grab at straws trying to determine who the team is targeting in the 2011 NFL Draft, we in the media have no choice but to address every potential prospect as just that.

We all know the Patriots as one of the smartest teams when it comes to staying ahead of the competition in any way possible. This mentality even spills over into the draft, when the Patriots often use these workouts as a diversion tactic, just as much as a means of learning about certain prospects.

But with six picks in the first three rounds and nine picks overall, the Patriots have to pick someone.

After Johnny Patrick's private workout with the team Saturday morning, we are left to ponder how he fits with the team.

ESPN's Scouts Inc. has him ranked eighth among the college cornerback crop for 2011 and 73rd overall.

Fans and analysts alike have bemoaned the Patriots' lack of a need in the secondary and dire need in the front seven. With Leigh Bodden returning to action, and with Darius Butler, Kyle Arrington, Jonathan Wilhite and Tony Carter already on the roster, it would appear to some that they're set at cornerback.

In his article on Patrick, ESPN Boston's Mike Reiss brings up a good point that Belichick loves to stockpile cornerbacks. He holds the belief that with the progression of the passing game in today's NFL, you can never have enough cover guys on the roster.

If there is a need at cornerback, it would be in the nickel spot.

Devin McCourty and Bodden are obvious "outside guys." Although Arrington played well last year, he was behind Wilhite on the depth chart throughout training camp. Still, he looks like the physical "nickel guy" who can cover quicker slot receivers and help out in run support.

Patrick may have decent cover and ball skills, but at a shade under 5'11" and 191 pounds, his biggest weakness is in run support. Opposing teams could run right at him with confidence anytime he's on the field.

He may be the eighth-best cornerback in the draft, but he's not worth any more than a late second or early third round selection.