Patriots Select Cornerback With Initial Sixth-Round Pick In NFL Draft [Video]

After using each of their first five picks on the offensive side of the football, the New England Patriots have selected their first defensive player.

The Patriots selected South Carolina cornerback Marcellas Dial with their initial sixth-round pick (No. 180) in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Dial, a three-year starter for the Gamecocks, adds depth at the cornerback position with Christian Gonzalez and Marcus Jones coming off 2023 injuries.

While Dial is viewed as a developmental cornerback, which is why he is still available in the sixth round, he possesses both the size (6-foot, 190 pounds) and speed (4.46 40-yard dash) to play on the outside.

“Man-cover cornerback with adequate size and toughness and above-average speed,” NFL draft Dial has the physical attributes for consideration as a pro, but he needs to improve his technique and pad level to prevent so many pitch and catch throws on the pro level. He’s …