The Patriots have a new face in their draft room.
The team’s official Twitter accounted shared a video Friday of the scene in the Patriots’ war room when they selected guard Cole Strange with the No. 29 overall pick. Per usual, Berj Najarian, who seemingly functions as Bill Belichick’s gatekeeper, called Strange and introduced him to Belichick. After saying a few customary words, Belichick handed the phone to Robert Kraft, who said how excited everyone was for Strange to join the team -- without sounding very excited.
They were other a couple of other front office people in the shot, including director of player personnel Matt Groh … and Matt Patricia.
It is apparent Patricia is heavily involved in all facets of the organization. Last year, he was often the one signing player contracts — a role typically reserved for general managers — and reportedly involved in the draft process as well. His role has only seemingly grown this offseason.
Patricia accompanied Belichick to the league meetings, a role typically reserved for front office execs, and was the driving force behind the DeVante Parker trade — at least according to Groh. He heaped praise on Patricia in a pre-draft press conference.
In addition to his personnel work, Patricia is expected to coach the offensive line and possibly be the offensive play-caller. That means he’ll get to know Strange well.
The NFL Draft is the first step in the player developmental process. But for Belichick, it’s also a good way to sharpen his possible successor’s resume.
