NFL Draft Rumors: New England Patriots Targeting Cleveland's 6th Overall Pick

According to a source close to the Boston Globe, the New England Patriots have contacted the Cleveland Browns regarding the 6th overall draft pick in the 2011 NFL draft. 

The first round of the draft is being held tonight at Radio City Music Hall in New York City, and the Patriots have already made the news in a potential trade—however this is a very unique scenario for the Patriots.

New England's head coach and general manager Bill Belichick has made it known over the years that he is not afraid of trading draft picks—it's almost like Belichick and the Patriots wait until the last second to announce the pick as if they're waiting for potential calls regarding a trade.

There hasn't been any details regarding the potential trade besides that New England would walk away with the 6th overall pick. 

If New England did acquire the pick, I would assume that Belichick and company will be targeting North Carolina's Robert Quinn. 

Quinn would be a perfect match in New England's 3-4 defense as a potential defensive end or even outside linebacker due to his freakish athleticism and versatility. 

All in all, Quinn fits the ideal "Patriot-mold" for a pass rusher with the big strong bold body frame and is athletic enough to cover tight ends and running backs—something similar to what Adalius Thomas was projected to be as a Patriot.

There are other names that come to mind if the Patriots do move up to 6th overall are cornerback Patrick Peterson and wide receiver A.J. Green. However, if this rumor is true, the Patriots are likely targeting Quinn. 

New England has an abundant amount of draft picks entering tonight, nine overall with six of them in the top 92, so it wouldn't be shocking if Belichick decided to move that far ahead to grab Quinn.

Essentially, if Belichick believes that Quinn is the real deal and the guy that he wants, he will pull the trigger and move up as far as he needs to go to snag him.

This article was first seen at PatriotsPlus.net. Be sure to follow Tony Santorsa on Twitter @      TonySantorsa.