The Patriots’ chances of making the playoffs are slim to none. However, that won’t stop the front office from seeking some reinforcement ahead of the trade deadline. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Patriots are on the lookout for some offensive line help.
Specifically, New England’s front office looked into acquiring Cam Robinson before the veteran was dealt from the Jaguars to the Vikings. The team has also reached out to free agent OL D.J. Humphries, who took a visit with the Giants last week. The Patriots probably won’t overspend on a veteran stopgap, but the team is at least looking at options that can help keep its quarterback(s) upright.
The Patriots offensive line has been responsible for allowing 27 sacks this season, the third-highest total in the NFL. While veteran seat warmer Jacoby Brissett presumably knew he’d take his fair share of hits in 2024, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Patriots are a bit more wary of their OL woes with Drake Maye guiding the offense. The third-overall pick suffered a concussion last weekend (on a scramble play), and considering the team’s investment in the QB, it will surely do everything in its power to keep him healthy moving forward.
While the Patriots didn’t do a whole lot to improve their offensive line this past offseason, the team also hasn’t received a whole lot of luck on the health front. New England has already turned to 11 different OL starters this season, and the different line combinations have naturally led to inconsistent play from the unit. Mike Onwenu is the only lineman who’s received a plus-grade from Pro Football Focus, so a lack of health can’t be entirely to blame for the team’s struggles.
Elsewhere in New England, Fowler says wideout K.J. Osborn is the Patriots player he’s watching closest as we approach the trade deadline. There’s been rumblings that the offseason acquisition already wants out of New England, and the veteran was recently demoted to the team’s WR4 or WR5 role following the return of Kendrick Bourne. In six games this season, Osborn has been limited to seven catches.
