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Three former Wisconsin Badgers were selected on the last day of the 2014 NFL Draft Saturday. James White, Jared Abbrederis and Beau Allen had to sweat through two-plus days of the draft but ultimately landed on NFL teams.
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James White (New England Patriots, Round 4 130th overall)— Good pick for Bill Belichick and the Patriots. Although White played all four years at Wisconsin, there’s not much wear on the tires as he has shared the backfield most of his time in Madison. The Patriots lost LeGarrette Blount to free agency and Stevan Ridley and Shane Vereen are both entering their final year of their respective contracts, meaning White has a chance to be a prominent back in a high-powered offense. White’s pass blocking, ball security and receiving skills along with his versatility make this a great pick for Tom Brady and company.
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Jared Abbrederis (Green Bay Packers, Round 5 176th overall)— As we all know, Abbrederis started his collegiate career with the Badgers as a walk-on. So it would be fitting he would continue playing football at the next level in a place where he is a household name–the Green Bay Packers. Catching passes from Aaron Rodgers is not a bad gig to land at all. Plus he will play under Randall Cobb and Jordy Nelson, allowing Jared to grow into his own and build as a solid receiver. Abbrederis in the return game also allows Cobb to focus solely on receiving.
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Beau Allen (Philadelphia Eagles, Round 7 224th overall)— A guy that has not put up exceptional numbers, Allen is a guy that is a gap filler. Allen will not start, but he is a bona fide backup for Philadelphia and should find a spot on the roster–not something every 7th round pick can say. And if opposing offense’s decide to double team Allen, that opens up plenty of opportunities for the talented Eagle defense to make plays. Beau will not get at the quarterback but he will be a run stuffer.