The Patriots need address offensive tackle with the defection of Trent Brown to the Oakland Raiders in free agency. 2018 first draft pick Isaiah Wynn will get first crack at left tackle but the Patriots must improve their depth along the offensive line. Offensive tackle will be a position they target.
Here are ten offensive tackles who profile as Patriot type players.
1.Dalton Risner, Kansas State, 6-5 312: Risner can play guard or tackle. The Patriots value lineman that can play multiple positions. Risner is a better short area pass blocker than he is blocking in space. Risner is fundamentally sound, has good feet and plays with good power at the point of attack in the run game. He is the best offensive line fit for the Patriots in this draft. Target round: 1st or 2nd
2. Greg Little, Ole Miss, 6-5 322: Little runs hot and cold but there is no question he has the size and the skill set to be a left tackle. He offers great value and could be a nice mid-round project for offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia. Target round: 2nd or 3rd
3. Isaiah Prince, Ohio State, 6-6 305: Prince underachieved at Ohio State but he has a long frame, athletic feet and has the ability to cut the edge off of a speed rusher. Plays a little high as a run blocker but there is no doubt that Prince can develop into a future starter. Target round: 3rd
4. Tytus Howard, Alabama State, 6-5 322: Howard is raw but he has a lot of upside athletically. He has the feet to match up against speed rushers and the raw power necessary to anchor down against bull rushers. He needs to play with better bend as a run blocker and he needs work fundamentally. Another project for Coach Scarnecchia. Target round: 3rd or 4th
5. Kaleb McGary, Washington 6-7 317: McGary’s length and athleticism are appealing however he needs to play with more natural bend and anchor down versus the run. Another intriguing prospect with starter potential long term. Target round: 3rd or 4th
Other prospects
Trey Pipkins, Sioux Falls, 6-6 309
Jackson Barton, Utah, 6-7 310
Mitch Hyatt, Clemson, 6-5 303
Alex Bookser, Pitt, 6-6 308
Tariq Cole, Rutgers, 6-6 320