The Patriots’ probabilities of making the playoffs are slim to none. Nonetheless, that gained’t cease the entrance workplace from looking 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 workforce 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 workforce is no less than taking a look at choices that may assist hold its quarterback(s) upright.
The Patriots offensive line has been answerable 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 workforce’s funding within the QB, it’s going to certainly do every part in its energy to maintain him wholesome transferring ahead.
Whereas the Patriots didn’t do an entire lot to enhance their offensive line this previous offseason, the workforce additionally hasn’t acquired an entire lot of luck on the well being entrance. New England has already turned to 11 totally different OL starters this season, and the totally different line combos 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 an absence of well being can’t be fully accountable for the workforce’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 workforce’s WR4 or WR5 function following the return of Kendrick Bourne. In six video games this season, Osborn has been restricted to seven catches.