How Mike Vrabel's First Two Drafts Fueled the Patriots' Run to Super Bowl LX

For over a decade, subpar drafting handcuffed the New England Patriots. Tom Brady masked the fatal flaw for much of that time, but his exit exposed it. In just two drafts, Mike Vrabel has changed things here in New England. He has ridden and will continue to ride with his guys. Look at the impact ...

by Hector Longo

Aug 3, 2026

New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel talks with offensive tackle Will Campbell (66).

For over a decade, subpar drafting handcuffed the New England Patriots.

Tom Brady masked the fatal flaw for much of that time, but his exit exposed it.

In just two drafts, Mike Vrabel has changed things here in New England. He has ridden and will continue to ride with his guys.

Look at the impact the incoming NFL Draft classes have had and are expected to make in 2026 with the defending AFC champs.

Class of 2025

Will Campbell, Round 1: He immediately grabbed the spot as the starting left tackle and doesn't appear to be giving it up any time soon. Vrabel has insisted that Campbell is the franchise guy in the key position on the offensive line. He's looked sharp and healthy this summer.

Sep 7, 2025; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson (32) ruswhes the ball against the Las Vegas Raiders in the first half at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

Mandatory Credit&colon; Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images

TreVeyon Henderson, Round 2: The Ohio State product stepped into an explosive complementary role in the backfield with Rhamondre Stevenson. Had 1,132 yards from scrimmage and 10 TDs as a rookie.

Kyle Williams, Round 3: Limited use as a rookie with 10 catches and three TDs, he's locked in a battle for a spot in the 2026 receiver rotation.

Jared Wilson, Round 3: The Georgia product started 13 regular-season games and all four playoff games at left guard. He slides to starting center this season.

Craig Woodson, Round 4: An impact defender immediately, he played in all 21 games at safety.

Rounding it out: Josh Farmer (Round 4 DT), Bradyn Swinson (Round 5 DE) and Marcus Bryant (Round 7 OL) all played key reserve roles in 2025. Kicker Andy Borregales (Round 6) and long snapper (Round 7) also locked in special teams jobs as rookies.

Jan 18, 2026; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots kicker Andy Borregales (36) kicks a field goal in the fourth quarter against the Houston Texans in an AFC Divisional Round game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-Imagn Images

Class of 2026

Caleb Lomu, Round 1: It's only a matter of time before he takes over the right tackle spot for Morgan Moses. For now, he's the sixth-man on the O-line.

Gabe Jacas, Round 2:Offseason injuries may delay it, but the Illinois product's impact at edge could be the key to this defense.

Eli Raridon, Round 3: The Notre Dame product is opening eyes in camp as he pursues the No. 2 tight end spot behind Hunter Henry.

The remainder of the picks are all getting their feet wet with corner Karon Prunty and linebacker Namdi Obiazor showing out best.

QB Behren Morton will try to hang onto the No. 3 role, and running back Jam Miller has a fight on his hands to grab a spot on the 53-man roster.

Offensive tackle Dametrious Crownover and edge Quintayvious Hutchins have to be considered developmental types.