Rob Ninkovich News

In 2012, the prevalent use of the read option attack emphatically ushered in a new era of athletic, talented quarterbacks.

Dec 22, 2012; Charlotte, NC, USA; Oakland Raiders defensive tackle Tommy Kelly and defensive end Lamarr Houston react on the field in the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium.

New England Patriots defensive tackle Brandon Deaderick sacks Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill as Patriots defensive end Rob Ninkovich, left, closes in during the first quarter of an NFL football game in Foxborough, Mass., Sunday, Dec.

A year ago, very few people knew of Rob Ninkovich, but after a breakout season for New England, the Patriots defensive end drew hundreds for a guest appearance at Hadlock Field.

Purdue's reputation for producing great quarterbacks is recognized throughout college football, as names like Brees, Griese, Herrmann, Dawson and Everett are linked to the program.

It's difficult to envision a world where one of the greatest quarterbacks to ever take a snap isn't safe from Bill Belichick's scythe, but even Tom Brady knows that he isn't guaranteed safe harbor.

May 3, 2013; Foxboro, MA USA; New England Patriot rookie Jamie Collins speaks to the media during rookie minicamp at Gillette Stadium.

I took the time to grade all three days of the 2013 NFL Draft for the New England Patriots separately, and you can read my "Day One" piece here , the second day here , and my day three grade here .

The New England Patriots selected Illinois Fighting Illini hybrid defensive end and linebacker Michael Buchanan with their first seventh-round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft.

It didn't figure to be a very exciting NFL Draft for the New England Patriots this year, without much draft ammo to work with, and few major holes to fill.

November 24, 2012; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; Rutgers Scarlet Knights defensive back Logan Ryan in coverage against the Pittsburgh Panthers during the first quarter at Heinz Field.

"He has major athletic ability," said one scout of Collins' LB-leading vertical jump and broad jump .

Now this was an interesting, final-day 2013 NFL Mock Draft for the third round of the 2013 NFL Draft.

The NFL draft is finally here! It's the highlight of the offseason for football fans, when their team adds a collection of new toys that can hopefully elevate it to the next level.