The Patriots continued to pull off major surprises in the NFL draft Saturday, this time selecting a big offensive tackle who recently has been diagnosed as having cancer.

The Pats selected Marcus Cannon, a 6-foot-5, 358-pounder from TCU, with the seventh pick in the fifth round, the 138th overall. Until a week ago, Cannon had been listed in most previews as a likely second round choice. However, several sources have reported that he has been diagnosed with non-Hodgkins lymphoma.

Cannon began cancer treatments earlier this week, according to ESPN NFL Insider Adam Schefter, and faces more treatment over the next three months. Patients with the disease have a 90 percent success rate in beating the cancer, Schefter said.

Apparently, the cancer was found when Cannon underwent physical exams for the draft.

Cannon owns several TCU program records for power lifts. While he played tackle in college, a number of scouts view him as more likely to play guard in the NFL. Since one of the Pats starting guards, Stephen Neal, has retired, the team needs help at that spot.

Cannon started 36 games for TCU, 24 at right tackle and 12 at left tackle. He is from Odessa, Tex., the home of Friday night lights.

With their second fifth-round choice, the 159th overall, the Pats selected tight end Lee Smith of Marshall.

Smith, who began his career at Tennessee, is a 6-foot-6, 265-pounder who is viewed as being more of a blocking tight end than a receiver.