The Patriots offensive line has struggled mightily the past three seasons. Bill Belichick tried to fix the unit in last year’s draft by drafting three interior lineman in Sidy Sow, Jake Andrews and Atonio Mafi. All three played but struggled at times and looked rushed.
Offensive tackles Trent Brown and Michael Onwenu manned the tackle spots. Brown had a tough season between injuries and not getting a contract extension offer from the team. Onwenu on the other hand moved from right guard to right tackle and solidified himself as one of the top offensive lineman in the league.
Going into free agency, Brown and Onwenu are arguably the top two offensive lineman in free agency.
The Patriots are more than likely going to move on from Brown but are interested in resigning Onwenu. It will not be easy as he is expected to have several suitors. If they do not get something done early in free agency, it will be hard to resign him.
The Patriots did sign former Steelers tackle Chukwuma Okorafor last week but they need more.
After whiffing on Riley Reiff in free agency last off-season, the Patriots need to get it right this time around at tackle.
Here are some potential tackle and guard targets they could sign.
Jonah Wiliams, OT, Cincinnati Bengals: Williams can right or left tackle. He played right tackle for the Bengals last season but has experience playing both sides. The Patriots would like to add a veteran who can stabilize either tackle spot but what they do ultimately depends on what happens with Onwenu. Williams is certainly on their radar and he is a player worth keeping an eye on.
Tyron Smith, OT, Dallas Cowboys: The all world left tackle has been linked to the Patriots but at this point in his career, you would think he wants a shot at winning a Super Bowl. If the Patriots come in with a big offer, they could land him. His injury history is concerning.
Cody Whitehair, OG, Chicago Bears: Whitehair was released by the Bears last week. He can step in and play guard or center if needed. He is a good player who is consistent and would add a much needed veteran presence to the interior of the Patriots offensive line.
Connor Williams OG/C, Miami Dolphins: Another swing lineman who is 26 years old. Williams has had some injuries issues of late but he is certainly a player who is worth taking a look at. He is in line to get his second contract so he is in the prime of his career and could be a good second tier option if the Patriots are thinking of saving some money.
Yosh Nijman, OT, Green Bay Packers: Former Packer left tackle can play either tackle position. Nijman is long and athletic but he struggles to anchor and he has had consistency issues. The Virginia Tech product has a lot of upside and could be another affordable option if the Patriots are looking to save some money and spend elsewhere.
Dalton Risner, OG, Minnesota Vikings: Still in the prime of his career, Risner is looking for a big pay day. The former Denver Broncos draft pick was traded to Minnesota last season. The Vikings are reportedly interested in keep him but they will have competition for his services. Risner is fundamentally sound and plays with an edge, something the Patriots desperately need along the offensive line.
Others:
Andres Peat, OG, New Orleans Saints
Aaron Brewer, OC/G, Tennessee Titans
Dan Feeney, OG, Chicago Bears
Donovan Smith, OT, Kansas City Chiefs