The Patriots have traded up to gain some speed at receiver.
New England acquired the 50th overall pick from Kansas City and selected Baylor receiver Tyquan Thornton.
Thornton was a second-team All-Big 12 honoree in 2021, recording 62 catches for 948 yards with 10 touchdowns. He ran a 4.28 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine and his speed should make a difference for New England’s offense.
While the Patriots do not have a strong track record of drafting receivers, Thornton will be the latest to try and buck that trend.
Thornton was viewed by some as a Day Three pick, but New England clearly valued his services. He’ll join a receiving corps for quarterback Mac Jones that also recently added DeVante Parker via trade.
The Chiefs received selections No. 54 and No. 158 in exchange for No. 50.