2011 NFL Draft Results: Patriots Pass on Mark Ingram, Trade with New Orleans

Is it that much of a shocker that the New England Patriots traded back, but is it more of a shock that they passed on a potential 1,500 yard rusher for the next seven to 10 years?

Bill Belichick passed on running back Mark Ingram, who is a tough, tone-setting running back that would immediate improve New England's rushing attack. 

The Patriots traded their 28th overall pick to the New Orleans Saints for a 2011 second rounder pick (56th overall) and a first round selection in 2012.

The Saints then went to select Alabama's Mark Ingram with their newly acquired 28th overall draft pick.

So, the Patriots passed on a very solid and impressive running back to stockpile on draft picks for not only this draft, but the 2012 draft.

Belichick and New England's draft team will enter the second round tomorrow night with the 33rd overall pick, 56th overall pick, and the 60th overall pick—it appears that the Patriots have set themselves up nicely for another successful second round for the second straight season.

There was definitely a bold and very brave decision by Belichick and company, and they better pray it wont come back to haunt them like passing on Clay Matthews does.

Ingram was the NCAA's best player in 2009 as he was honored with the Heisman Trophy, and was still productive in the 2010 season despite being banged up. During his time at Alabama, Ingram has proved to scouts that he is a very physical back that is a workhorse and can carry the load—perfect for Tom Brady and New England's offense.

If New England did draft Ingram, he would have joined a three-headed monster backfield with BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead.

As New England enters the second round with three selections, expect New England to trade their 33rd overall pick to a team who desperately wants a player and does not have any high-end second round picks.

New England passed on their chance to grab the draft's best running back, but there are still a decent group of running backs still available.

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