This month, MassLive will look at five options that make sense for the Patriots in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Mike Vrabel’s team has the 31st pick. If they don’t trade up or down, this is one of the most realistic options at the time.
KC CONCEPCION, WR, Texas A&M
Concepción, a transfer from NC State, is a talented pass catcher and dynamic playmaker who is dangerous with the ball in his hands.
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He is considered a first-round prospect in the upcoming NFL draft.
He caught 61 passes for 919 yards with nine touchdowns last season. He normally plays in the slot, but can also line up outside.
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com wrote, “Concepción’s ability to figure out quickly should be very attractive to teams with spotty protection and a young quarterback.”
He received first-team All-SEC honors as a wide receiver, versatile player and return specialist. He also won the Paul Hornung Award as the country’s most versatile player.
Why the choice makes sense: One of the best route runners in the draft, he has the ability to get open quickly and immediately become one of Drake Maye’s top go-to guys.
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He’s explosive, a yard-catching machine who has the makings of a game-changer in Josh McDaniels’ offense. He’s a nightmare against man coverage, something the Patriots desperately need.
In addition to being a potential No. 1 receiver, Concepción also has special teams chops, returning two punts for touchdowns with the Aggies last season.
Why don’t you do it?: If the Patriots intend to land AJ Brown after June 1, which is still a good bet, they may not be willing to use a first-round draft pick on a receiver. That might not stop them from drafting a receiver, but they might be more inclined to fill larger holes at edge rusher or on the offensive line.
Concepción has also had problems with casualties, with 19 in three seasons.
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