7. (215) Ben Patrick, TE
Ben Patrick was projected to be drafted in the 2nd or 3rd round according to many experts. So you could imagine what the Cardinals felt when they saw him still available in the 7th round. TE has been a black hole in the Cardinals offense for quite some time and they hope Patrick will develop into a good starting TE for them. He’s a big guy at 6’3″, 275 pounds but he’s not super physical in blocking for the run yet but that’s something the Cardinals will work with him on. He runs a 4.85 40 so he’s not the fastest guy around but he’s a good receiver. In 42 games (24 starts) at Duke and Delaware, Patrick caught 143 passes for 1,420 yards (9.9 avg) with 8 TD grabs. Patrick was an excellent pick in the 7th round for the vastly improved Cardinals.
I watched Big Ben play in high school. He was the man then, and will be a great target for the Cards.
Steve, not to many times have 7th round picks been starters as a rookie in the NFL….but….all signs are pointing to Patrick getting the chance if he performs well in the pre-season.