4 Patriots Who Will Lose Their Roster Spot to a Rookie in the NFL Draft

4. OT Vederian Lowe

According to Pro Football Focus, the Patriots struggled to protect their quarterbacks in 2023, resulting in the fourth-worst pass-block grade (50.9) in the NFL. While the finger could be pointed at various players for those struggles, Vederian Lowe was one of the main culprits.

After being drafted 184th overall by the Minnesota Vikings last year, Lowe was traded to the Patriots for a 2024 fourth-round pick back in August. Injuries to the offensive line meant that the ex-Illinois blocker had to start in eight of his 11 appearances, which couldn't have gone worse.

Playing 290 pass-block downs, the 24-year-old surrendered 29 hurries, 6.0 sacks, and three QB hits while taking two penalties. He was given a PFF pass-block grade of 36.0 for his efforts (or lack thereof), ranking dead last among 81 qualified tackles. He was also given a 49.3 for run blocking (9th-worst) and 41.7 for overall offense (3rd-worst).

Regardless of who the Patriots put under center next season, they have to do a better job at protecting the quarterback. Having Lowe around — whether as a backup or starter — won't help with that goal if his 2023 performance is the norm going forward.

The good news is that the first two rounds of the 2024 draft are projected to be filled with promising offensive tackles, meaning the Patriots shouldn't struggle to upgrade Lowe's roster spot.

The favorite to be drafted by the New England Patriots with the No. 3 overall pick is Jayden Daniels of LSU (+160) according to FanDuel Sportsbook. Head over to FanDuel to take advantage of their sign-up offer and wager on who you think the Pats will draft.

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