New England Patriots: 53-man roster projection after two preseason games
By Brian Hines
Offensive Line (8): David Andrews, Trent Brown, Marcus Cannon, Cole Croston, Ted Karras, Shaq Mason, Joe Thuney, LaAdrian Waddle
The Patriots lost Isaiah Wynn for the season due to an Achilles tear. Wynn projected as a backup with Brown and Cannon holding down the starting tackle spots, but having quality depth on the line never hurt. The Patriots used four different starting tackles last season en route to the Super Bowl.
Wynn’s injury opens a spot for second-year tackle Cole Croston, who was on the team all of last season. LaAdrian Waddle will slide back into the teams third tackle position, where he gave New England quality time last season.
Even with Brown and Cannon as starters, Waddle and Croston could see plenty of playing time as Cannon has missed extended time in training camp. Like Michel, Cannon’s absence from Monday’s practice marks ten straight. The injury is undisclosed, but Cannon missed six games last year due to a season-ending ankle injury.
The interior part of the Patriot offensive line remains the same as last season, with Joe Thuney, David Andrews and Shaq Mason all returning. The three have been a steady trio and all eyes will be on Shaq Mason as he enters a big contract season. Ted Karras remains as depth to any of the interior positions.