The Patriots released offensive tackle Antonio Garcia yesterday. Garcia was a 2017 third round pick. He was originally drafted as a potential replacement for Nate Solder at left tackle but he missed his entire rookie season due to blood clots in his lungs. As a result, Garcia lost 40 pounds and was not the same physically.

It’s rare to see Bill Belichick give up on a young player like that, especially a player he traded up to draft but it is obvious the Patriots didn’t think he was going to be able to compete to replace Solder at left tackle or kick inside to guard. The road back would have taken too long.

Drafting Isaiah Wynn makes even more sense now. The Patriots obviously liked Wynn and they felt he could play left tackle. They also knew Garcia was not ready physically.

Garcia will get another shot somewhere else. Young offensive lineman who are technically sound and play with a nasty streak are not that easy to find. Some team will sign Garcia, invest in developing him and get a potential starter down the road.

The Patriots decided they didn’t have the time to wait on Garcia so they decided to cut their losses and move on. It is an interesting move for a team that is revamping their offensive line.