New England Picks Up Geneo Grissom Late in the Third Round

The reigning Super Bowl champions are known for their smart defensive players, it's how the Patriots have been so successful as a franchise since the turn of the millennium. They continued that trend in the 2015 NFL Draft, taking versatile defensive end Geneo Grissom in the third round. He was drafted 97th overall, joining Dorial Green-Beckham (40th) and Jordan Phillips (52nd) as the only other former Oklahoma players drafted this far.

The third Oklahoma player selected was the one with the most experience, appearing in 40 games in four seasons for the Sooners. He picked up 17 tackles for loss, eight sacks, two interceptions, and three fumble recoveries in his career. His legacy at Oklahoma was defined in the 2014 Sugar Bowl against Alabama when he returned a fumble for a touchdown late in the game to put the Sooners up by 14. He's played linebacker, tight end, and defensive end at Oklahoma.

The 6"3 defensive end will likely be placed as a pass rusher with the Patriots. He's swapped positions a couple of times at Oklahoma, so finding a fit that matches his skill set will be the deciding factor on just how good Grissom will be in the NFL.

Grissom might not see playing time immediately at New England, but once the coaches find him a role he should be able to contribute to their outstanding defense. But his big play ability should tempt the coaching staff just enough into finding him some playing time as a rookie, as the Patriots have often done in the past with their new draft picks.