Here is why the New England Patriots should draft Cashius Howell.
The New England Patriots have been urged to draft Cashius Howell in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
The Patriots have the 31st overall pick.
"Texas A&M's Cashius Howell was one of the nation's finest defenders during the 2025 campaign," Bleacher Report's Brent Sobleski wrote. "In face, he became the SEC Defensive Player of the Year after an 11.5-sack performance. But his draft standing has been hurt primarily based on his lack of length.
"The Patriots already proved that arm length and wingspan aren't critical factors in their evaluations after taking left tackle Will Campbell with last year's fourth overall pick. Howell is far too explosive and tenacious as a pass-rusher for the Patriots to pass."
In the 2025 college football season, Howell had 20 solo tackles, 14 tackles for loss and 11.5 sacks. He won the SEC Defensive Player of the Year Award.
Howell finished his college career with 73 solo tackles, 35.5 tackles for loss and 27 sacks in 56 games with Bowling Green and Texas A&M.
The Patriots lost to the Seattle Seahawks in the Super Bowl last season. Mike Vrabel needs more aggressive pass rushers on his defense next season and Howell would certainly fit that bill.
New England racked up 35 sacks in 2025. That was good for only 25th in the NFL. Vrabel's defense needs to get more pressure on opposing QBs next season.
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