2011 NFL Draft: New England Patriots Could Target Running Back in Early Rounds

In a pre-draft interview aired on the NFL Network conducted by Mike Mayock, New England Patriots head coach discussed the quality of running backs early on in the draft: 

“Well, I think when you look at the production throughout the league; you’ll see there is a lot of production from first- and second-round running backs, currently in the league and in previous years. That position has produced a lot in the National Football League, as obviously has the quarterback position. So I wouldn’t say it’s devalued at all. I’m sure that a good running back can help any football team, both offensively and defensively. If the club feels the player is worthy of that role and that position on the team, I don’t think there is anything wrong with putting a high pick into it.”

By simply reading into this answer from Belichick, you may be lead to believe that running backs Mark Ingram and Mikel Leshoure could very well be on New England's radar. 

The way Belichick describes how a "good running back can help any football team, both offensively and defensively" indicates how much value the Patriots may have invested on the running backs in the 2011 draft class. 

The past couple of mock drafts that I have produced, including my latest one, I have had the Patriots selecting Ingram with their 28th overall pick—assuming that Belichick and company doesn't trade it away.

Assuming that New England will be conducting multiple trades, and they have a pick in the later first round or early second round, I can easily see New England selecting Ingram.

Adding Ingram to New England's offense could be deadly as he'd join an elite passing game led by Tom Brady with wide receivers Wes Welker and Deion Branch, and not to mention two stellar young tight ends.

Ingram would add stability to New England's backfield and would create a three headed monster along with Danny Woodhead and BenJarvus Green-Ellis.

However, the Patriots are impossible to predict—they will be drafting for value, not for team need. 

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