New England Patriots Draft: Will the Pats Stay Local and Draft BC Eagles?

The Boston College Eagles football program held their Pro Day Wednesday, and many NFL scouts were present for the event—notably New England Patriots' offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia, along with scouts Jon Robinson and Brian Smith. 

As NFL scouts gathered at Chestnut Hill, the primary focus were on offensive tackle Anthony Castonzo and linebacker Mark Herzlich. 

Castonzo, who's projected as one of the top offensive lineman in this year's draft class, could be extremely high on New England's big draft board. Some might speculate that the Patriots, who sit with two, first round picks (17th and 28th) are showing some serious interest in Castonzo, considering Scarnecchia was present at the event. 

The Patriots entire offensive line has some serious holes in it—especially on the left side. Left tackle Matt Light and left guard Logan Mankins' futures are both up in the air with New England, and Castonzo would be an immediate fit at left tackle for 2011. 

Castonzo met with the media following the Pro Day, and was impressed with Scarnecchia, who led most of the offensive line drills today. 

“He was coaching us up. It was like a practice,” said Castonzo, who projects to be a first-round draft pick. “It was nice, I learned some stuff today.” 

Herzlich, on the other hand, is projected to go somewhere in the middle of the draft, and New England could have their eye on him.

The BC linebacker is most known for being a cancer survivor, but prior to his treatment, who had some major success as an Eagle. 

In 2008, prior to cancer treatment, Herzlich was named an All-American and ACC Defensive Player of the Year. 

With the NFL draft right around the corner, New England will likely be thinking towards staying local with the likes of Castonzo and Herzlich showing NFL caliber potential. 

NOTE: This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net.

Be sure to follow Tony Santorsa on Twitter @       TonySantorsa.