The 2020 Patriots draft arrived amid uncertainty, with New England targeting versatile talent to support a rebuilding offense. This guide walks through each selection, evaluating how early and mid-round choices shaped the roster over the next several seasons.
From quarterback debate to late-round steals, the 2020 class delivered narrative moments as well as tangible contributors on both sides of the ball.
| Pick | Player | Position | College | Role in 2020 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 61 | Trent Brown | OT | Florida | Starting right tackle |
| 78 | Joe Thuney | OG | NC State | Starting guard, run blocker |
| 100 | Hunter Henry | TE | Arkansas | Frontback, receiver in motion |
| 138 | Deatrich Wise Jr. | DE | Arkansas | Edge rush in 3-4 |
| 184 | Matthew Judon | LB | Buffalo | Defensive captain, edge sets |
| 218 | Kristian Wilkerson | WR | Southeast Missouri State | Depth at wide receiver |
2020 Offensive Line Strategy
The Patriots used early rounds to stabilize the edge and interior gaps. Selecting Trent Brown at 61 and Joe Thuney at 78 addressed immediate run-blocking needs while providing long-term upside at tackle and guard.
Run Blocking Foundations
Thuney’s lateral quickness paired with Brown’s length created a right side that could sustain drives. These choices reduced reliance on veteran free agency at key positions.
Cap Management Implications
Both players signed deals that balanced present cost with future flexibility, setting the stage for mid-round trades later in the draft.
2020 Skill Position Additions
After trading up to 100, the Patriots drafted Hunter Henry to add a tight end who could line up as a frontback and stretch the field. His chemistry with the quarterback complemented existing quick-game concepts.
Tight End Depth Chart Evolution
Henry’s arrival pushed existing receivers to improve route precision and contested-catch ability, elevating the whole unit.
2020 Defensive Development
Deatrich Wise Jr. and Matthew Judon formed the core of a pass-rush scheme that depended on versatile line play and athletic linebackers.
Edge Containment Goals
Wise Jr.’s motor and Judon’s burst allowed creative blitz looks that disrupted opposing quarterbacks without abandoning run integrity.
Scheme Fit and Growth
Judon’s playmaking instinct translated into sacks and hurries early in his tenure, while Wise Jr. developed into a disruptive two-gap defender.
2020 Wide Receiver Depth
The selection of Kristian Wilkerson at 218 provided reliable depth and special teams value. His route precision in short and intermediate zones offered the coaching staff another option in critical downs.
Special Teams Impact
Wilkerson’s return ability and disciplined assignment tracking created additional yards after contact on kickoff and punt teams.
Long-Term Roster Influence
- Improved run blocking reduced quarterback pressure in obvious passing downs.
- Tight end versatility opened play-action and two-back looks against stacked boxes.
- Edge rushers with high motor sustained a rotation that confused offensive coordinators.
- Depth at wide receiver allowed creative use of trip and bunch formations.
- Draft capital preserved flexibility for future trades and mid-round steals.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did the Patriots use the 61st overall pick in 2020?
They selected offensive tackle Trent Brown to stabilize the right side and project as a long-term starter.
What role did Hunter Henry assume after being drafted at 100?
Henry became a flex tight end and frontback, enhancing the offense’s ability to stretch the field and diversify formations.
Why did New England trade up to 138 to select Deatrich Wise Jr.?
The trade aimed to secure edge-rush talent who could thrive within a 3-4 scheme and generate pressure without sacrificing run defense.
What impact did Matthew Judon have in his early seasons with the Patriots?
Judon served as a defensive captain whose pass-rush moves and coverage smarts consistently disrupted opposing game plans.