Patriots Trade up in 3rd Round and Take Much-Needed TE in UCLA's Devin Asiasi
By Michael Luciano
After adding players from D-II schools like Lenoir-Rhyne and blue bloods like Michigan and Alabama, the New England Patriots went to the West Coast to find their next tight end.
With the 91st overall pick in the 2020 NFL draft, the Patriots selected UCLA tight end Devin Asiasi.
With the 91st overall selection in the 2020 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots select...
— PFF (@PFF) April 25, 2020
Devin Asiasi, TE, UCLA pic.twitter.com/fiMoDuQP9P
Asiasi can line up at several different spots, but his best trait as a prospect is his ability to cause havoc as a runner due to his speed and physicality. He also has some really impressive blocks on tape.
Asiasi could start right away, as the Patriots lack a player with his combination of explosion at the line of scrimmage and blocking ability.
The Patriots trade up to number 91 to take UCLA TE Devin Asiasi.
— Jordan Moore (@iJordanMoore) April 25, 2020
Notes on Asiasi:
- Physical and versatile (every Pats pick so far in 2020)
- Can brock VERY well, not afraid to get his nose dirty
- Very athletic, can catch “better than typical TE” pic.twitter.com/7w8918WHVg
To play tight end in New England, you need to be able to block well and make plays after the catch. While he is a bit on the raw side, Asiasi can check both of those boxes in spades, which should help him potentially start right away in New England.