Patriots rumors: 3 free agent O-line targets of quality and depth

ORCHARD PARK, NY - NOVEMBER 08: Ethan Pocic #77 of the Seattle Seahawks against the Buffalo Bills at Bills Stadium on November 8, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images)
ORCHARD PARK, NY - NOVEMBER 08: Ethan Pocic #77 of the Seattle Seahawks against the Buffalo Bills at Bills Stadium on November 8, 2020 in Orchard Park, New York. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /
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New England Patriots
New England Patriots David Andrews Mandatory Credit: Brian Fluharty-USA TODAY Sports /

The New England Patriots have a solid foundation on their offensive line but adding depth is still necessary. It’s the most important single unit on the squad. None of the back-ups instill massive confidence.

That notwithstanding, right now the Patriots are clearly on the way toward having a top-performing starting offensive line in 2021.

So any efforts to strengthen or provide competition to the starting contingent or to add depth are to be welcomed, whether or not it’s the team’s top priority.

Joe Thuney‘s signing with the Chiefs freed up lots of cap space but with the concomitant loss of one of the best offensive linemen in football.

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Fortunately, the Patriots have a replacement in either Michael Onwenu or Isaiah Wynn, depending on how they decide to position these two solid linemen. Onwenu was a rookie sensation. Wynn gets injured too often.

Three free-agent offensive linemen New England Patriots could sign

The re-signing of Ted Karras provides decent depth at either center or guard. Karras is a valuable backup at both positions and provides tested depth and game-day coverage for two positions if an injury occurs.

Yet the best, and the biggest news for New England (along with the Trent Brown trade) is the re-signing of David Andrews. Not much has to be said about that. It’s a fabulous move.

He’s a leader, a top center in all of the NFL. He solidifies this position without a doubt and makes their starting offensive line one of the best or maybe even the best in the league, depending on how they are deployed.

Yet, there are still those depth issues. So let’s take a look at three free agents who might be available (if they have not already signed someplace else by now) who could add that depth.