The New England Patriots are expected to draft Malachi Lawrence, a pass rusher from the University of Central Florida (UCF), with their 31st overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Lawrence, who has an impressive college record of 20 sacks and 28 tackles for loss over four seasons, is considered a strong candidate to fill the void left by K'Lavon Chaisson after he signed with the Washington Commanders this offseason. According to Dane Brugler from The Athletic, Lawrence is the seventh-best pass rusher in this draft class, noted for his toughness against the run and potential to develop into a starting role despite lacking ideal bend as a mover. The Patriots' draft plans remain unaffected by the recent trade between the New York Giants and the Cincinnati Bengals, which involved defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II and the 10th overall pick.