2011 NFL Mock Draft: Analyzing Wes Bunting's New England Patriots Picks

As holders of two first-round picks in the 2011 NFL draft, the New England Patriots have the enviable position of addressing two areas of need with high-quality prospects.

Meanwhile, Patriots fans have the enviable pleasure of looking at two picks when first-round mock drafts are done.

Wes Bunting of National Football Post recently did his third version of a first-round mock draft, and had the Patriots selecting Wisconsin DE J.J. Watt at No. 17 and Baylor G Danny Watkins at No. 28.

If J.J. Watt falls to the Patriots, he's not falling past them.

He has the versatility, having played many different spots along the defensive line, from 3-4 defensive end to 4-3 end and tackle. Simply put, he can contribute in a number of ways and would likely never have to come off the field as a three-down player.

Not only that, but Watt can make all the plays, from tackles to sacks to pressures and getting his hands up to bat a pass down.

Most importantly, he's an emotional leader. The consensus best 3-4 defensive end prospect in the draft, Watt is exactly the type of iron-willed football player the Patriots need in the trench.

As for Watkins, it's easier to have mixed feelings about the pick.

No one doubts that he's an ultra-talented guard, but the 27-year-old has already given up much of his NFL career.

Even with that in mind, the New England Patriots may be wise to make this pick. His value may be diminished in the eyes of some other teams, but could his age actually give him an advantage?

He's far more mature than most of the prospects coming into the NFL, and that maturity won't be tested as it is for guys five or six years younger than Watkins.

He has solid technique, a great frame, and looks ready to contribute at the NFL level.

All in all, this is a scenario that Patriots fans shouldn't be disappointed to see pan out.