Patriots take LB Ja'Whaun Bentley in 5th round

The New England Patriots have selected linebacker Ja'Whaun Bentley out of Purdue with the 143rd overall pick in the fifth round of the 2018 NFL Draft.

Bentley is the Patriots' second defensive pick of the day. They selected cornerback Duke Dawson in Round 2.

Ja'Whaun Bentley Bio

Position: LB
School: Purdue
College Experience: Senior
Height: 6-2
Weight: 260 lbs

What the analysts are saying

• "Bentley lacks ideal speed and reaction time, but his size and toughness could make him a solid backup inside linebacker who could find reps down the line." - Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
• "Big, bulky, close-to-the-line linebacker who flourishes against the run due to his nasty demeanor, block-shedding ability, and surprising power. NFL teams won't want to use him in coverage, as he severely lacks speed and quickness." - CBS Sports

Athletic testing (pro day)