The Patriots are shaking things up on their offensive line by signing free-agent tackle James Hudson III. This move addresses a crucial need, especially with the departure of backup left tackle Vederian Lowe and the aging of starting right tackle Morgan Moses, who's now 35.
Hudson brings experience to the table, having started 19 of his 60 career games with the Giants and Browns. Last season, he primarily backed up the left tackle spot in New York, appearing in 11 games. His time in Cleveland saw him switch sides, with three starts at left tackle following a career-high seven starts at right tackle in 2023.
While Hudson has struggled in pass protection-evidenced by seven pressures allowed in just 61 pass-blocking snaps last season-he's known for his run-blocking prowess. His pressure rate topped 10% in 2023, a season where he played nearly half of Cleveland’s offensive snaps under the guidance of renowned offensive line coach Bill Callahan.
Drafted in the fourth round out of Cincinnati in 2021, Hudson stands at 6-foot-5 and weighs 313 pounds. He joins a Patriots depth chart that includes Moses, starting left tackle Will Campbell, and practice-squad players Andrew Rupich, Lorenz Metz, and Sebastian Gutierrez.
Looking ahead, the Patriots are likely to continue bolstering their offensive line in the upcoming draft, aiming to solidify protection and enhance their ground game.