The New England Patriots were unable to get their offense going in the Super Bowl against the Seattle Seahawks, ultimately leading to an ugly loss. Quarterback Drake Maye was under constant pressure, which clearly affected his ability to drive the ball down the field accurately.
Heading into the offseason, the Patriots have an obvious task in front of them: Improve the offensive line, by whatever means necessary.
After spending big in free agency last offseason, New England may not have the cash to bring in a top veteran. Instead, they could look to the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft to add another starter up front.
Will Campbell looks like a building block on the offensive line (though a move inside to guard may need to come at some point), but New England should keep an eye on these three prospects as the draft approaches.
3 OL draft prospects Patriots could add to protect Drake Maye
Monroe Freeling, Georgia OT
Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling may be one of the biggest risers leading up to the NFL Draft. If he's available at the 31st pick, the Patriots should strongly consider taking him off the board.
Freeling is an athletic, long-armed tackle who thrives in pass protection. He played right tackle at Georgia, so he could be an immediate replacement for Morgan Moses, allowing Campbell to stay on the left.
Max Iheanachor, Minnesota OT
Max Iheanachor didn't even start playing football until college, so he's still raw as a prospect. But he makes up for his lack of experience with eye-popping athleticism and size. He's quick enough to stay in front of even the most explosive edge rushers.
He will take some time to develop when he reaches the NFL, but he could become a consistent starter for the Patriots for years to come. Still, New England's front office may not have the patience to wait for his development.
Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon G
New England may choose to address the interior of the offensive line rather than the tackle spots. If they do, Oregon guard Emmanuel Pregnon may be their best option. He's as technically sound as guard prospects come, with an impressive ability to protect the passer against a variety of defensive linemen.
While he's best in pass protection, he shows flashes of dominant run-blocking ability as well. NFL teams don't often spend first-round picks on guards, but Pregnon would be worth the selection.