Patriots Draft Option: Justin Hunter (WR-Tennessee)

As we previewed a week ago, the Pats could be looking to draft a wide receiver, and now that Brandon Lloyd looks to be on his way out, the Pats should be looking for an outside threat.  I profiled Tavon Austin last week, but he is strictly a slot receiver.  Justin Hunter is 6'4 196.  He just recently ran an official 4.44 40 time.  He's big, fast, and freakishly athletic.  For the people who want the Pats to have a guy who can "stretch the field", then Hunter is the guy you'll want the team to draft.  This guy is more than capable of testing safeties deep down the middle of the field, and his height gives him a huge advantage in jump balls.

Now, you may be wondering why a guy with this skill set would even be available late int he first round or possibly the second round.  Well, this draft has some pretty good receivers.  Tavon Austin's stock is rising after having an impressive combine.  Also, Justin Hunter isn't even considered to be the best wide receiver from Tennessee in the draft.  His college teammate Cordarrelle Patterson is widely considered the top wideout in the draft this year.  I would have profiled Patterson, however I just don't see him lasting long enough in the draft for the Pats to pick him.

Needless to say, the Pats don't have a strong track record of taking receivers in the first round.  Selecting Hunter would require them to tinker their drafting philosophy, so it would be surprising to see them do it.  But if ever there was a year to draft a receiver in the first round, this might be it.  I could see Justin Hunter sneakily being the best overall receiver drafted.  Big receiver like that don't grow on trees.

Cue the highlight reel!