6 Patriots on the Roster Bubble Heading Into Preseason Finale

5. Atonio Mafi, offensive line

The offensive line is sorting out for the New England Patriots as the preseason rolls along, but probably not as everyone had really hoped or expected. Patriots.com writer Evan Lazar had some good notes on the ongoing competition in one of his most recent roster predictions:

"The Patriots continue tinkering with their starting tackles in camp, which has put a spotlight on the biggest question mark with their current roster. With each taking "starter" reps in recent practices, Calvin Anderson and Vederian Lowe are front-runners to make the team, along with veteran G/C Nick Leverett in spot-starter/top backup roles. Leverett has been serviceable at guard and center, so you feel good about him being the fourth interior offensive lineman while fourth-rounder Layden Robinson develops.

Eventually, the hope is that third-round draft choice Caedan Wallace will overtake either Anderson or Lowe in the starting lineup. However, after beginning padded practices with the top group, Wallace was moved to the second unit while getting reps at both tackle spots. Okorafor has also been a spectator in recent practices. Before that, the former Steeler had already moved back to his natural position of right tackle, as experimenting with him at left tackle was short-lived."

Evan Lazar, Patriots.com

Much of the focus has obviously been on the tackle position, and for good reason. But the interior offensive line has also been interesting to watch because Cole Strange is starting the year off on the PUP and we don't exactly know when he's going to be back in the fold.

Even with questions on the interior offensive line, the Patriots might be trying to get 2023 fifth-round pick Atonio Mafi to the practice squad after the preseason. He was also playing deep into the preseason game against the Eagles and as much as you love the size and power he brings to the table, he just hasn't played well enough to solidify a roster spot at this point.

But his fifth-round draft status from a year ago might be something the Patriots take into consideration when assembling the final 53-man roster.