5 Patriots Who Won't Return in 2025 With Season Officially Over

5. Cole Strange, Guard/Center

Cole Strange was drafted by the Patriots in the first round of the 2022 draft. Strange was a surprise pick and the Patriots were hopeful he could fill the void with Shaq Mason being traded. 

Strange played all 17 games at left guard in 2022, showing some promise but hasn’t been able to stay on the field in the last two seasons. He’s played in 13 games the last two years, with his last three games at center instead of left guard.

Heading into year four, Strange’s future with the Patriots is unknown as the team will have to decide on his fifth-year option. Strange, who’ll turn 27 in July, hasn’t performed at the level he was drafted at and his role as either a guard or center isn’t cemented yet, as David Andrews will return for another season. 

The Patriots could consider trading Strange and look into adding offensive linemen in either the draft or free agency, both of which have depth at the position. Upgrading the offensive line is a top priority as last year’s line was among one of the worst in the league, allowing 52 sacks.

Strange’s injury history and contract situation could force the Patriots to make a difficult choice by not bringing him back.

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