The New England Patriots took a bold step last season by shifting rookie Jared Wilson from his natural center position to left guard. Initially, the move seemed manageable, but as the playoffs loomed, it became clear that the experiment wasn't panning out as hoped.
Wilson's challenge was twofold: not only was he navigating the typical hurdles of a rookie offensive lineman, but he was also adapting to an entirely new position. This was quite the shift for someone who entered the league hailed as one of the top center prospects in the 2025 NFL draft.
So, what's next for Wilson?
According to reports from insiders Mark Daniels and Karen Guregian, the Patriots are considering moving Wilson back to center. However, there's a significant obstacle in the form of Garrett Bradbury.
While Bradbury may not be a superstar, his consistency is invaluable. Last season, he provided the Patriots with solid veteran presence on the line. For Wilson to reclaim the center spot, he'll need to prove he can match, if not exceed, Bradbury's reliability.
The Patriots have options. They could look to the draft for another guard or promote Ben Brown within the depth chart. The ultimate aim is to assemble the best possible offensive line, a necessity underscored by last season's struggles to protect second-year quarterback Drake Maye and bolster the run game.
With the benefit of hindsight, the Patriots have the opportunity to reassess and reconfigure their strategy for 2026. It's all about finding the right mix to ensure success on the field.