The Patriots offensive line lost a big piece this off-season when left tackle Nate Solder left in free agency and signed with the Giants.

Rookie Isiah Wynn was drafted in the first round as a potential replacement for Solder. While Wynn lacks the prototypical size to play the position, he is athletic enough to play left tackle.

Offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia is beginning his 33rd full season as a member of the Patriots coaching staff. He has a good group to work with. The Patriots have a good blend of veterans and young guys along the offensive line.

Here are our my thoughts on the position.

Projected Starters: Isaiah Wynn (LT), Joe Thuney (LG), David Andrews (C), Shaq Mason (RG), Marcus Cannon (RT)

Back-Ups: Trent Brown (G/T), LaAdrian Waddle (T), Ted Karras (C/G), Luke Bowanko (C/G)

Position Thoughts: As I mentioned, the Patriots have a good blend of youth and experience along the offensive line. Marcus Cannon and Shaq Mason have become fixtures along the right side and are now the leaders of this group. Mason is poised to have a pro bowl caliber season and has developed into one of the best guards in the NFL.

Center David Andrews is smart, tough and can hold his own against nose tackles and shade tackles one on one. Left guard Joe Thuney struggled at times last season and may end up competing against Isaiah Wynn for the starting job. Thuney especially struggled in pass protection.

Wynn will have to hold off massive veteran Trent Brown off for the starting left tackle spot. It wouldn’t be a surprise to see Brown start the season at left tackle but he is more of a right tackle physically.

Veterans LaAdrian Waddle, Ted Karras and Luke Bowanko are swing guys who can play multiple positions and provide quality depth.

The Patriots offensive line is deep and talented and could be a strength for this team in 2018. Especially if the Patriots commit more to the running game. This unit has the potential to do some great things this season.