Patriots Predicted to Draft First-Round Wide Receiver

The New England Patriots are having a fantastic season, owning the NFL’s best record (11-2). While their main focus right now is getting to and winning the Super Bowl, it’s not too early to start thinking about the NFL draft. Recently, Ayrton Ostly of USA Today assembled a mock draft. He has the Patriots taking Tennessee wide receiver Chris Brazzell II in the first round (32nd overall pick):

New England could use a pass-rusher, but it also wouldn’t hurt to add a receiver like Brazzell.

“32. New England Patriots: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee

New England could go a lot of ways with this pick but opt to give Drake Maye another weapon in the passing game. His size (6-foot-5, 200 pounds) pairs well with good burst off the line to give the Patriots a vertical threat. Despite his long levers, he’s shown a solid ability to operate underneath as well.”

Patriots Predicted to Draft Wide Receiver Chris Brazzell II

His Career Thus Far

Chris Brazzell II attended Midland Christian School in Midland, Texas. He transferred to Midland Legacy for his senior year. During his senior season, Brazzell caught 59 passes for 859 yards and 12 touchdowns. He also helped lead Midland Legacy to a 10-2 record and a second-round appearance in the Texas Class 6A D-I state playoffs.

Brazzell then committed to play college football at FAU. However, he ultimately changed his mind and chose Tulane. He passed up offers from Pittsburgh, New Mexico State, Southern, and Austin Peay.

In 2022, Brazzell played in Tulane’s first two games of the season before redshirting. He would put together a breakout second season. That year, Brazzell caught 44 passes for 711 yards and five touchdowns. For his efforts, he earned freshman All-America honors and All-AAC Third Team accolades.

Brazzell then transferred to the University of Tennessee. During his first season with the Volunteers, he recorded 29 receptions, 333 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.

In 2025, Brazzell had seven receiving touchdowns through the first five games, which were the most through five games of a season in program history. He had several great performances, including 177 yards and three touchdowns against No. 6 Georgia. Brazzell finished with 62 receptions, 1,017 receiving yards (leading the SEC), and nine touchdowns.

Should the Patriots Draft Him?