Milton, Landry… and Who’s Next? Patriots Poised to Shock with Defensive Draft Strategy

The New England Patriots are entering the 2025 NFL Draft with a clear mission: rebuild a roster that has struggled in recent years and restore the franchise to its former glory. Under the leadership of new head coach Mike Vrabel and executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf, the Patriots have already made significant moves in free agency, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. With the additions of defensive tackle Milton Williams, edge rusher Harold Landry, linebacker Robert Spillane, and cornerback Carlton Davis, New England has laid a foundation for a faster, more aggressive defensive unit. However, with the No. 4 overall pick and nine total selections in the 2025 draft, the Patriots are poised to make a bold statement by doubling down on defense, potentially targeting elite prospects like Penn State’s Abdul Carter or Georgia’s Jalon Walker. This article explores the Patriots’ defensive draft strategy, their free agency moves, and the potential shockwaves their selections could send through the NFL.

A New Defensive Identity Under Vrabel

After a disappointing 3-14 season in 2024 under former head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots turned to Vrabel, a former Patriots linebacker and proven head coach with the Tennessee Titans, to steer the franchise back to contention. Vrabel’s defensive philosophy emphasizes aggression, versatility, and relentless effort—qualities he’s already begun instilling through free agency. The signings of Milton Williams (four-year, $104 million deal), Harold Landry (three-year, $43.5 million), Robert Spillane (three-year, $37 million), and Carlton Davis (three-year, $60 million) signal a shift toward a faster, more attacking defensive front and secondary.

Williams, a disruptive interior lineman from the Philadelphia Eagles, brings athleticism and pass-rush ability to a defensive line that ranked last in the NFL with just 28 sacks in 2024. Landry, a familiar face from Vrabel’s Titans tenure, adds a veteran presence on the edge with 50.5 career sacks. Spillane’s 173 tackles over the past two seasons with the Raiders make him a reliable tackler in the middle, while Davis strengthens a secondary already featuring rising star Christian Gonzalez. These moves have addressed critical needs, but the Patriots’ defensive overhaul is far from complete. 

Vrabel and defensive coordinator Terrell Williams are reportedly transitioning to a four-down defensive front, emphasizing overloads, stunts, and aggressive pass-rushing schemes. This schematic shift, combined with the team’s draft capital, suggests New England will prioritize elite defensive talent in the 2025 draft to complement their free agency additions.

The Case for Abdul Carter

At the top of many draft boards is Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, a consensus No. 1 prospect who embodies the high-motor, disruptive qualities Vrabel covets. Carter, with 12 sacks in his final college season, is praised for his burst, bend, and relentless effort. Analysts like Mike Dussault of Patriots.com describe him as a “slam dunk fit” for Vrabel’s defense, capable of providing “instant juice off the edge.”

Selecting Carter at No. 4 overall would be a bold move, especially given the Patriots’ pressing needs at left tackle and wide receiver. However, Wolf has emphasized a “best player available” approach, stating, “The best player available is going to be the way it is.” With Carter’s elite potential, he could form a formidable pass-rushing duo with Landry and Keion White, transforming New England’s front seven into a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.

Critics argue that doubling down on edge rushers after signing Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson might be redundant, especially with offensive line deficiencies looming. Yet, the Patriots’ 32nd-ranked sack total in 2024 underscores the need for a game-changing pass rusher. Carter’s versatility to play both edge and off-ball linebacker could also provide schematic flexibility, making him a high-upside pick.

Jalon Walker: A Dark Horse Candidate

If Carter is off the board by No. 4, Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker is emerging as a strong contender. Walker, a top-10 prospect, is gaining buzz as a potential Patriots target, with reports suggesting Vrabel is a big fan of his athleticism and tenacity. At 6-foot-2 and 245 pounds, Walker is a heat-seeking missile who excels as both a pass rusher and run defender. His ability to dominate favorable matchups, especially against slower offensive tackles, makes him an ideal fit for Vrabel’s aggressive scheme.

Pairing Walker with Williams, Landry, and Christian Barmore (assuming his return from health concerns) could create one of the NFL’s most formidable defensive fronts. Walker’s “nastiness” and effort align perfectly with Vrabel’s culture-building goals, and his selection could solidify the Patriots’ defense as a top unit in the AFC East for years to come. Trading down from No. 4 to acquire additional picks while still landing Walker is a scenario gaining traction among analysts, as it would allow New England to address multiple needs.

Other Defensive Prospects to Watch

While Carter and Walker are the headliners, the 2025 draft is deep with defensive talent, particularly along the front seven. Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham is a name to watch if the Patriots opt for an interior lineman. Graham’s explosiveness, balance, and power make him a “wrecking ball” who could complement Williams and Barmore. However, with Williams already signed, Graham might be a luxury pick unless Barmore’s status remains uncertain.

Other edge rushers like Georgia’s Mykel Williams or Ohio State’s Jack Sawyer and JT Tuimoloau could be targets in later rounds, especially if the Patriots trade down or use their second-round pick (No. 38 overall). These players offer power and versatility, fitting Vrabel’s preference for multi-dimensional defenders.

Balancing Defense with Offensive Needs

The Patriots’ defensive focus comes with risks. The team’s offensive line, particularly at left tackle, remains a glaring weakness, and the wide receiver corps lacks a true No. 1 option despite the addition of Stefon Diggs. Prospects like LSU’s Will Campbell or Arizona’s Tetairoa McMillan could address these needs, but Wolf’s commitment to taking the best player available suggests defense might take precedence.

Vrabel’s free agency spending has given the Patriots flexibility to prioritize talent over need, but fans and analysts are divided. Some argue that protecting quarterback Drake Maye, who showed promise as a rookie, should be the priority. Others believe a dominant defense can mask offensive deficiencies, especially in a division with high-powered offenses like the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.

A Shock to the System

The Patriots’ 2025 draft strategy is shaping up to be a defining moment for the franchise. By targeting elite defensive prospects like Carter or Walker, New England could shock the NFL with a defense-first approach that harkens back to the early Bill Belichick era. With Vrabel’s track record of developing tough, disciplined units and Wolf’s willingness to swing for the fences, the Patriots are poised to make waves in Green Bay when the draft kicks off on April 24.

Whether it’s Carter’s explosive edge presence, Walker’s relentless pursuit, or an unexpected trade-down to maximize value, the Patriots’ defensive draft strategy promises to keep fans and analysts on edge. Milton Williams and Harold Landry have set the stage—now it’s time to see who’s next.