The Patriots’ probabilities of making the playoffs are slim to none. Nonetheless, that gained’t cease the entrance workplace from searching for some reinforcement forward of the commerce deadline. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Patriots are looking out for some offensive line assist.
Particularly, New England’s entrance workplace appeared into buying Cam Robinson earlier than the veteran was dealt from the Jaguars to the Vikings. The crew has additionally reached out to free agent OL D.J. Humphries, who took a visit with the Giants last week. The Patriots in all probability gained’t overspend on a veteran stopgap, however the crew is not less than choices that may assist preserve its quarterback(s) upright.
The Patriots offensive line has been accountable for permitting 27 sacks this season, the third-highest whole within the NFL. Whereas veteran seat hotter Jacoby Brissett presumably knew he’d take his justifiable share of hits in 2024, it wouldn’t be stunning if the Patriots are a bit extra cautious of their OL woes with Drake Maye guiding the offense. The third-overall decide suffered a concussion final weekend (on a scramble play), and contemplating the crew’s funding within the QB, it would certainly do all the things in its energy to maintain him wholesome transferring ahead.
Whereas the Patriots didn’t do a complete lot to enhance their offensive line this previous offseason, the crew additionally hasn’t acquired a complete lot of luck on the well being entrance. New England has already turned to 11 completely different OL starters this season, and the completely different line mixtures have naturally led to inconsistent play from the unit. Mike Onwenu is the one lineman who’s acquired a plus-grade from Professional Soccer Focus, so a scarcity of well being can’t be fully in charge for the crew’s struggles.
Elsewhere in New England, Fowler says wideout K.J. Osborn is the Patriots participant he’s watching closest as we strategy the commerce deadline. There’s been rumblings that the offseason acquisition already desires out of New England, and the veteran was not too long ago demoted to the crew’s WR4 or WR5 function following the return of Kendrick Bourne. In six video games this season, Osborn has been restricted to seven catches.
