NFL Draft strategy began for the New England Patriots during free agency. For example, one that got away means the team may target that position in the draft. But if ex-Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum had the same role with the Patriots this year, the organization would likely be shocked about his pick — and bypassing pass rusher Abdul Carter — at No. 4 in his mock draft.Tannenbaum said the Patriots should get Missouri tackle Armand Membou and dove in with the 2024 stats, according to espn.com. 

“Last season, the Patriots were 31st in pass block win rate (50.9%), and their 52 sacks allowed tied for the fifth most,” Tannenbaum wrote. “So that’s my focus. Membou played in 36 games and started 30 at Missouri, and he allowed one sack last season. I believe he can shift from right tackle to left tackle, too.

“He moves really well and shows solid hand placement. He’s also very explosive, posting the best broad jump (9-foot-7) and second-fastest 40-yard dash (4.91 seconds) of all offensive linemen at the combine.”

Another reason Tannenbaum pointed to Membou is the organizational slant. With Mike Vrabel installed as the new head coach, the Patriots will lean toward his tendencies.

“The idea of new Pats coach Mike Vrabel taking a tackle reminds me of Jim Harbaugh selecting Joe Alt in his first draft with the Chargers,” Tannenbaum wrote. “And I think bringing in Membou would be a similar tone-setting pick.”