The New England Patriots are at a crossroads with their offensive line, and it's clear some changes are necessary. After revamping four starting positions from the 2024 season, the line showed progress in 2025 but faltered significantly during the playoffs.
Drake Maye, unfortunately, took more sacks than any quarterback in playoff history, surpassing Joe Burrow's previous record. The Patriots allowed five or more sacks in each of their four playoff games, a stark contrast to the regular season where this happened only four times in 17 games.
Will Campbell emerged as a major concern, allowing 14 pressures in the Super Bowl-the highest for any lineman in the league this year. A staggering 56% of Seattle's pressure on Maye was directed through Campbell's position.
Campbell wasn't alone in his struggles. Left guard Jared Wilson had an inconsistent playoff run, and Garrett Bradbury matched his season-high by allowing six pressures in the Super Bowl. It's clear that the Patriots might need to consider significant changes.
Looking Ahead: Potential Free Agency Moves
If the Patriots are eyeing a major overhaul, free agency could offer some solutions. Centers Tyler Linderbaum and Connor McGovern are yet to be extended, and guards like David Edwards and Teven Jenkins could be valuable additions.
While the tackle market isn't as deep, Rasheed Walker stands out. A seventh-round pick from Penn State in 2022, Walker became the Packers' starting left tackle after an early-season injury to David Bakhtiari in 2023.
Since then, he's been a staple on the line, allowing 14 sacks over three seasons. Despite competition from Jordan Morgan, the Packers' 2024 first-round pick, Walker retained his starting spot.
However, Green Bay faces some tough choices. With Matt LaFleur's future secured despite playoff woes and the team $1.5 million over the cap, they might prioritize spending elsewhere, potentially moving Morgan back to his college position.
The Case Against Signing Walker
While Walker would certainly be an upgrade over Campbell, it's not a straightforward decision for New England. Head Coach Mike Vrabel has expressed strong confidence in Campbell as the left tackle of the future, ruling out a position change.
Signing Walker to a hefty contract to play right tackle seems unlikely too. Morgan Moses, turning 35 soon, remains under contract, and potential successors like Utah's Caleb Lomu or Alabama's Kadyn Proctor are being considered in the draft.
Without any indication of Moses retiring, Walker's signing seems improbable. With Bleacher Report estimating Walker's contract at $22 million per season, the Patriots might find better value elsewhere, such as investing in a top-tier center like Linderbaum or adding a seasoned guard like Edwards to bolster Campbell's development.
In conclusion, while the Patriots have options, strategic investments in key positions could better address their offensive line woes and set them up for future success.