Despite forfeiting their first round pick due to the Deflategate scandal, the Patriots had a solid 2016 draft, adding players that will give them roster flexibility in the upcoming season as well as in the future.

Here’s a look and grade for some of the high-caliber selections:

Cyrus Jon es, CB, Alabama (Round No. 2, 60 overall )

Reports indicated that New England and coach Bill Belichick were impressed with Jones both on the field and off. Jones is an undersized corner back at 5-foot-10, but is effective in the slot, especially in press coverage. Jones is also an impact special teamer, returning four punts for touchdowns last season at Alabama. The most attractive element of Jones’ game is his intelligence. Jones has been widely recognized as a film junkie and excelled in Nick Saban’s complex scheme. Jones should provide an immediate option in the defensive backfield along with the return game, making his value much higher than a late second rounder. Grade: A

Joe Thuney, OG, NC Stat e (Round No. 3, 78 overall )

The most valuable part of this pick is the versatility Thuney provides, having played at all five line positions in college. Thuney is not a polished product, but has enough talent and rising skills to be an immediate reserve player on the line. Thuney has also been praised for his quick feet and pass blocking skills which is essential in the Patriots’ offense. Although Thuney is flexible, he has shown the most promise on the interior. Between the drafting of Shaq Mason and Tre’ Jackson in 2015, along with the acquisition on Jonathan Cooper in the Chandler Jones trade, Thuney will need to contribute at tackle to maximize his significance. Grade: B

Jacob y Briss ett , QB, NC Stat e (Round No. 3, 91 overall )

Tom Brady will most likely be serving some, if not all of his four-game suspension in September. Brissett provides New England with a backup behind Jimmy Garoppollo along with a developmental piece for the future. Although Brissett is strong, effective on his feet and has an NFL-caliber arm, there are some concerns when it comes to his fit in New England. The Patriots utilize a short-game offense, including quick slants, ins, outs and screens. Brissett is a traditional downfield passer that tends to hold on to the football a little too long, causing him to use his legs to escape tough situations. His talent is undeniable, but Brissett will need to be groomed if he will be a long-term member of the club. Grade: C+

Vincent Valentine, DT , Nebraska (Round No. 3, 96 overall )

Many scouts expected Valentine to drop into the later rounds because of late-season injuries in 2015. The Patriots felt that the risk was worth taking, selecting him in the third. Valentine may not bring much to the pass rush, but his big frame and great strength allow him to overpower interior lineman while being an above average run-stopper. Valentine should be in the rotation along with Malcolm Brown, Terrance Knighton and Alan Branch. The key will be staying healthy and in shape, which was a regular struggle at times in college. Grade: B+

Malcolm Mitch ell , WR, Georgia (Round No. 4, 113 overall )

Mitchell may end up being a fourth-round steal for New England. Mitchell’s size is average along with his speed and quickness, but his precise route running and reliable hands make him a solid fit for the Patriots, which boast one of the league’s largest route trees. Mitchell may not crack the regular lineup from the start, but should have plenty of opportunities during the season to prove his worth. Grade: B

— Sports Staff Writer Alex Sponseller can be reached at sports@journaltribune.com or at 282-1535 ext. 323. Follow the Journal Tribune Sports Department on Twitter @JournalTsports.