The Patriots even went for a quarterback in the third round because, after all, Tom Brady can't play forever — although most Pats fans would love to think he could.
Here is a look at the complete list of the Patriots' selections from this year's draft.
Nate Solder: first Round, 17th overall pick, offensive tackle, Colorado
Ras-I Dowling: second round, 33rd overall pick, cornerback, Virginia
Shane Vereen: second round, 56th overall pick, running back, California
Stevan Ridley: third round, 73rd overall pick, running back, LSU
Ryan Mallett: third round, 74th overall pick, quarter back, Arkansas
Marcus Cannon: fifth round, 138th overall pick, offensive tackle, TCU
Lee Smith: fifth round, 159th overall pick, tight end, Marshall
Markell Carter: sixth round, 194th overall pick, defensive end, Central Arkansas
Malcolm Williams: seventh round, 219th overall pick, defensive back, TCU