FOXBOROUGH- Patriots offensive tackle Thayer Munford has been here before, literally and figuratively. Munford is in his second stint with the Patriots this season after spending time with the Cleveland Browns earlier in the season.

Originally drafted by the Las Vegas Raiders in 2022, Munford is familiar with Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels after playing for him in Las Vegas. After three seasons in Vegas, Munford was released and signed to the Patriots practice squad earlier this season.

The Patriots would lose Munford in late September when he was signed off the practice squad by the Cleveland Browns. Cleveland released Mumford on October 13th and he was immediately resigned by the Patriots. Upon his return, Munford has made the most of his opportunity and as a result ended up on the 53 man roster.

Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel said that Munford is a different player since his return to the Patriots.

“You saw a different Thayer, I think, than the one that left here. And again, having spent time with another team, came here, and I think it was okay. And then getting claimed by Cleveland, coming back, I think we all, including Thayer, saw a different version of him. One that was much more prepared, ready to go physically and has done that role before. He’s helped us, hopefully, and whether he plays tackle or both spots on the offensive line. So, I think we’ve just seen a different version of Thayer, and I think he’s trying to take advantage of his opportunities.”

Munford’s opportunity came in the form of the Patriots 22 Rhino package where they utilize him as an extra tackle in the tight end position. Munford enters the game as the sixth tight end. A role that has been prominent in the Patriots offense and McDaniels system for years. From Cam Fleming to Marcus Cannon to Yodny Cajuste, the Patriots have used 6 offensive lineman for years.

Diagram 1: Munford lines up back side in the Patriots 22 Rhino personnel grouping.

Munford is the back up right tackle but when the Patriots call for 22 Rhino personnel, he enters the game as the extra offensive lineman. He has embraced his role.

“It’s been good,” he said. “I’m happy I’m blessed to be in the six O-line package. To come in, and we run the ball and I get to set a tone physically. At the same time, I told everybody when I came back, I’m here to help. I’m not here to be bullsh*t around. I’m not here to just be going to the playoffs. I’m here to make a difference.”

Munford has made a difference and he has given the Patriots the opportunity to expand a package that was run out of necessity earlier this season when tight end Austin Hooper missed a game due to injury. Last week against the Chargers, offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels went to the package and run speed option with Drake Maye. The Patriots are clearly expanding the package which means more opportunities for Munford.

“We they called my number and called the play, I like O.K…It’s some different but it was really about the look they gave us and taking advantage of it. Doing whatever it takes to make a play.”

Munford has made an impact in the package and the package will be a part of the Patriots offense moving forward. I asked Munford if we could see him potentially be used in the passing game as a receiver. Like Coach Vrabel used to. Munford response….”Never know but I’m just doing what they’re asking of me right now.”

Regardless of what he is asked to do, Munford is doing his job and that is why his second tour of duty in New England has been different.