Cole Strange. The name that echoed through the 2022 NFL Draft, sparking a tidal wave of… well, let’s be honest, confusion. It wasn’t that he wasn’t talented. It was where he was picked – 29th overall by the New England Patriots. Many draft analysts (and fans) had him pegged as a Day 2 or even Day 3 selection. So, what gives? Why the Cole Strange pick, and what does it tell us about the Patriots’ long-term game plan? That’s what we’re digging into today.
The “Patriot Way” and Offensive Line Needs
Here’s the thing: the Patriots, love them or hate them, operate on their own wavelength. They often zig when everyone else zags. Remember when they drafted a punter in the fourth round? Exactly. But before we write this off as another Belichickian head-scratcher, let’s look at the context. The Patriots had glaring needs on the offensive line, particularly at guard. After losing Joe Thuney in free agency, the interior protection for Mac Jones was a definite area of concern. And that’s where understanding the NFL Draft process comes in handy.
But it wasn’t just about need. It was about value as they saw it. Belichick and his staff clearly believed Strange was the best available player at a position of need at that specific spot. They likely feared he wouldn’t be there when they picked again. Did they reach? Maybe. But they addressed a critical need. According to several reports, The Patriots saw Strange as a player who could contribute immediately and develop into a long-term starter. This is key because Mac Jones needs time to throw, and a shaky interior line derails everything. Cole Strange’s career became a focal point.
Film Doesn’t Lie | What Cole Strange Brings to the Table
Okay, let’s move past the draft position and talk about the actual player. Strange isn’t some unknown quantity. He’s a tough, athletic guard with experience playing multiple positions on the offensive line. He started 44 games at Chattanooga, showcasing his durability and versatility. He is an imposing offensive lineman.
What fascinates me is his athleticism. He’s quick off the snap, has good feet, and can pull and get out in space – crucial in today’s NFL. He’s also known for his tenacity and willingness to finish blocks. Now, he’s not a finished product. He needs to refine his technique and get stronger to consistently handle NFL defensive tackles. But the raw tools are there. This isn’t a project; it’s a player with a high floor and a potentially high ceiling. Several coaches have said that Cole’s pass protection is solid, and his run blocking will only get better with NFL-level coaching.
The Long View | More Than Just Protecting Mac Jones
Here’s where we get to the “why” behind the pick. It’s not just about protecting Mac Jones (though that’s a huge part of it). It’s about building a sustainable offensive identity. The Patriots, under Belichick, have always valued a strong running game. Think Corey Dillon, Antowain Smith, and more recently, the power running schemes of the early 2010s.
Cole Strange fits that mold. He’s a road grader in the running game, capable of creating running lanes for Damien Harris, Rhamondre Stevenson, and whoever else lines up in the backfield. And a consistent running game opens up the passing game. It makes play-action more effective, keeps defenses honest, and controls the clock. It’s a complete offensive philosophy, not just a quick fix. Many football analysts are predicting he will make the all-pro team.
Draft Grades and Instant Gratification | Ignoring the Process
Let’s be honest, everyone loves instant gratification. We want to see rookies come in and dominate from day one. But that’s rarely how it works, especially on the offensive line. It takes time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL game. And draft grades? They’re mostly entertainment. They’re based on incomplete information and often reflect the consensus opinion rather than in-depth analysis. The Patriots offensive line needed depth, and Cole Strange would deliver.
The Patriots’ brass knows this. They have a track record of developing offensive linemen. Look at guys like Logan Mankins and Nate Solder. They weren’t instant stars, but they became key contributors for years. The team views Cole Strange as a similar project – someone they can mold into a reliable, long-term starter. Time will tell if they’re right, but judging the pick solely on draft position ignores the process. And the “Patriot Way” is all about the process.
But, even as the season gets underway, teams are looking to get the edge. The Patriots need to keep refining. They are always looking for ways to improve and win.
And don’t forget the other part of the game. The Patriots defense is just as important as the offense.
FAQ About Cole Strange and the Patriots
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the immediate reaction to the Cole Strange pick?
Initial reactions were largely negative, with many analysts considering it a significant reach based on pre-draft rankings.
How long is Cole Strange’s contract?
His rookie contract is a standard four-year deal, with a fifth-year option for the Patriots.
What are some areas where Cole Strange needs to improve?
He needs to refine his technique, get stronger, and improve his consistency against NFL-caliber defensive tackles.
Does the Cole Strange pick mean the Patriots are committed to a run-heavy offense?
It suggests a commitment to a balanced offense, with a strong running game complementing Mac Jones’ passing ability.
What about the team’s salary cap situation?
All teams have to juggle salary cap situations every year.
Ultimately, the Cole Strange pick is a bet on potential and development. It’s a reminder that the NFL Draft is more art than science, and that teams often have different valuations than the media or the fans. Whether it works out remains to be seen, but it’s a fascinating glimpse into the Patriots’ strategy – a strategy built on long-term planning, player development, and a healthy dose of defying expectations. As perWikipedia, evaluating draft picks takes several seasons. And that’s the key: patience.
Time will tell if this was a stroke of genius , or just another quirky move by a team that plays by its own rules.
