NFL Draft 2012: Why Patriots Must Use Both 1st-Round Picks on Defensive Players

The New England Patriots' run to the Super Bowl was quite impressive given the lack of quality they had on the defensive side of the ball for much of the season.

Even though the defense was better in the playoffs than it was in the regular season, it still has to be improved in several areas.

With two first-round picks to work with in a year that has a strong draft class, it is important that head coach Bill Belichick use both of his top picks on defensive stars.

The Patriots are pretty well stocked at linebacker, so their biggest areas in need of improvement are in the secondary and along the defensive line.

If Belichick can find two players who can step right into the NFL and contribute as rookies, the Patriots should be able to get back to the Super Bowl next year.

Let's look at three players that the Patriots could take with their first-round draft choices, which are picks 27 and 31.

Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The Crimson Tide star is an experienced defensive back whose ability to read plays well makes him effective in both run and pass defense.

Barron has good speed which allows him to cover wide receivers well, and his size gives him the ability to run with stronger tight ends.

He's a very fundamentally sound player, and almost always tackles opposing players by wrapping them up the right way rather than going for the big hit.

Barron would be a fantastic addition to the Patriots' depth at safety.

Whitney Mercilus, DE, Illinois

Whitney Mercilus led college football in sacks last season with 16 and is a great fit for the Patriots defense.

His ability to rush the passer would address a big need for the team and his speed and strength will allow him to thrive at the NFL level.

Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Alfonzo Dennard is one of the best cornerbacks available in this draft and is a fantastic one-on-one cover guy. He has good speed and can also tackle well too.

With Devin McCourty having a poor 2011 season for the Patriots, Belichick needs to find some more talent at the cornerback position in this draft.

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