Looking at the New England Patriots’ draft through the eyes of the consensus big board, we can see that several players qualify for the “steal” label. Among them, one stands out: fifth-round draft choice Bradyn Swinson, who was picked 78 slots lower than his big board ranking.

Obviously, this shows some type of disconnect between how the analysts viewed Swinson as a draft prospect versus how the NFL saw him. However, it also means that from a pure on-field perspective, the Patriots were able to get a player regarded as a Day 2 talent at No. 146 overall.

It is therefore unsurprising that Swinson himself used the “S” word when describing what New England would be getting in him.

“You got a steal,” he said during his introductory media conference call.

“A player that’s going to do whatever the team needs. You’re going to get a dog, though. You’re getting a dog. That’s off rip.”

A three-star recruit out of high school, Swinson started his college career at Oregon but decided to enter the transfer portal after starting just a single game in three seasons. He quickly found a new home at LSU, and immediately became a contributor for the Tigers: appearing in 12 contests with one start, he had his most productive season up until that point.

The 6-foot-4, 255-pounder opted to stay in school for his final year of eligibility, a decision that proved to be correct: Swinson had a breakout year in 2024.

A 12-game starter on the edge, he set new career highs in tackles (58), tackles for loss (13) and sacks (8.5), and also tied the mark he had set the previous season in forced fumbles (2). Swinson was named second-team All-SEC, and headed toward the draft with some momentum on his side.

He still had to wait until the fifth round to hear his name called — the likely result of maturity questions — but is still optimistic about his ability to contribute to the Patriots in a positive manner.

“I win my 1-on-1s. That’s what I do, I pass rush,” he said. “With Coach [Mike] Smith, I’m going to a great coach that really knows how to teach the position. That’s just something I’m really looking forward to doing because I already know how to get to the ball.

“I really just know how to find my ways and just get around the ball. I think that’s the big thing with me, my pass rushing. Just showing my capabilities and just being able to pass rush. That’s the big thing for me, getting to the quarterback. It’s just winning your 1-on-1s. I think that’s the big thing about me.”