The Patriots fortified the line of scrimmage this week with the additions of guard Nick Leverett on offense and defensive end Armon Watts on defense. Both add depth and experience that was sorely lacking along the offensive and defensive lines.
Leverett started 10 games for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2022 and has been a valuable depth piece for them in recent years. He has been in the league five seasons. Leverett could also play center if needed and as of now, he slots into the starting left guard spot until Cole Strange returns from injury.
Leverett stands at 6-4 310. He went undrafted out of N.C Central in 2020 and was signed by the Buccaneers.
Watts has made 22 career starts for three different franchises. He was originally drafted by the Minnesota Vikings as a sixth round pick in 2019. He has played for the Vikings, Bears and Steelers.
The 6-5 307 pound Watts can play inside as a three technique or outside as a five technique. He has strong hands and can consistently absorb double teams. He is also a quality pass rusher.
Both players should make the team and contribute next season. Depth along the offensive and defensive lines was a key focus for the Patriots going into free agency and the draft.