The Patriots suffered another injury along the offensive line when left tackle Isaiah Wynn was placed on I.R with turf toe yesterday.
Wynn can return to practice in six weeks and after two weeks of practice, would be eligible to play on November 17th against the Philadelphia Eagles.
Replacing Wynn will not be easy. In fact, it will be easier to replace David Andrews than Wynn. Left tackles are harder to replace than centers for a variety of reasons. Sure, the center makes all the line calls but most guards have played center at some point in their football careers so they can kick inside if need be. Left tackle is different. It is all about physical tools. If there isn’t a player on the roster that has the physical tools or the athleticism to play the position, it could be a problem.
According to sources, the Patriots are considering moving left guard Joe Thuney to left tackle. If they do that, Korey Cunningham or Jermaine Eluemunor would slide into left guard. Veteran Marshall Newhouse is another option assuming Marcus Cannon is healthy otherwise Newhouse would stay at right tackle. Tackle Caleb Benenoch is also another potential option but the swing tackle is now the top back up.
The 2019 Patriots have an opportunity to be special. The only thing that could potentially derail them is injuries. Losing Wynn and Andrews is a huge blow. Protecting Tom Brady is priority number one. If the Patriots have a revolving door at any position along the offensive line, it is a problem.
For now, the organization will place it’s faith in offensive line Dante Scarnecchia and his ability to develop talent. He is the glue. As long as he is there, things will be O.K. Despite the presence of Scarnecchia, the Patriots offensive line injuries are a concern both in the short term and the long term.