Patriots: Trent Brown trade could spell the end of Marcus Cannon in New England

When the New England Patriots acquired Trent Brown in a trade with the Las Vegas Raiders last week, many immediately wondered what would be happening with Isaiah Wynn.

But perhaps fans were quick to overlook Marcus Cannon’s situation and how he’s likely the odd man out after the deal.

Wynn, who has shown promise but has dealt with injuries for much of his young career, still comes cheap.

And don’t forget, the Pats could exercise a fifth-year of control over him if they pick up his rookie option before the May deadline.

As for Cannon, the veteran missed all of 2020 after opting out due to COVID-19 concerns and there’s been no chatter on his status for 2021.

Additionally, his release can save New England even more money.

Is Marcus Cannon going to get released by the Patriots?

Here’s what ESPN’s Mike Reiss reported on Sunday:

"“When the Patriots agreed to a trade for offensive tackle Trent Brown, it sparked questions about offensive tackle Marcus Cannon’s future with the team. One source close to Cannon believed the “writing was on the wall” for him to be cut, which would save the team about $6.3 million in salary-cap space. A factor in the decision-making process could be that Cannon, because of COVID-19 concerns, has yet to return to New England for a physical examination/workout like others who opted out of the 2020 season.”"

Bill Belichick didn’t give up much for Brown and then converted his two-year deal into a one-year, $11 million contract, so there’s no commitment beyond 2021. Whether he plays left or right tackle, you have to think Wynn still has a role because of his age and the fact that he’s more cost-effective, whereas Cannon will be 33 for the 2021 season and just missed an entire year.

Maybe they find a trade partner for Cannon, which would be even better. With the growing need for offensive linemen across the NFL, it wouldn’t be out of the question. And Cannon’s cap hit isn’t prohibitive whatsoever. Perhaps Belichick turns him into a fourth- or fifth-round pick and frees up even more cap space ahead of free agency.

That’ll give the Patriots more spending power to surround Cam Newton with weapons on offense (or address some of the holes on defense) while putting the offensive line situation into focus for 2021.

At the very least, it could help the team bring back David Andrews to give them an offensive line of Brown, Michael Onwenu, Andrews, Shaq Mason and Wynn, assuming Joe Thuney likely leaves via free agency.

Then, acquiring some depth options will be all that’s left to round out this unit. Not a bad plan if you ask us.

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