2 free agent tackles become most desirable for Patriots to sign after Week 4 loss

The unfortunate reality of the Patriots having a less-than-ideal offensive line has been a stain on the team's roster for a few years now, and there was hope it would change under the new regime this past offseason. Although they made some effort to improve the group they had, even double-dipping in the draft, it remained a concern during the summer and continues to be the leading cause of offensive issues through the first four games.

It was anticipated to be a weak part of the rebuilding offense, so expectations were low, but the way the o-line has performed so far is worse than anyone could have imagined.

Pass protection is currently ranked dead last in the entire NFL, according to PFF, as Jacoby Brissett is facing a 49.6% pressure rate on every dropback, putting him on path to being the most pressured quarterback since the stat became available in 2018.

Their performance was at its worst against the 49ers in Week 4, allowing the highest pressure rate in the league again at 53.8% on every dropback.

The lack of stability from the offensive line impacts the rest of the offense's production, from the quarterback to the wide receivers and the running backs. It's making any sort of success difficult to achieve, which isn't going to bode well for the Patriots chances of winning any more games unless they make changes as soon as possible.

The easiest way to do that is by considering some of the remaining free agent left tackles who, despite some injury concerns, could bring the veteran experience the group needs to put the offense back on track and allow more opportunities to move the ball down the field.

Jerod Mayo and the Patriots need to break their word and sign offensive line help

Although most unsigned players heading into the second month of the season are likely still on the outside for a reason, the Patriots cannot continue ignoring their biggest weakness, which won't be fixed via trade or with the group they have, which happens to continue getting injured.

One player they should, at the very least, inquire about is Charles Leno who spent the last three seasons with the Washington Commanders as their starting left tackle.

His age and calf injury that landed him on IR last season could be a concern, but his veteran experience and top grade pass protection would be a welcomed addition to the Patriots roster. Through nearly 900 snaps in 2023, he earned a 77.8 grade from PFF, allowing just three sacks and five hurries on the quarterback. That's far better than any current players on their roster.

Another option would be D.J. Humphries, the Pro Bowl left tackle who spent the last eight seasons with the Cardinals.

The 30-year-old has also dealt with some big injuries during his career, but like with Leno, he would still be an improvement over who the Patriots have right now. He missed just two games during the 2023 season, remaining on the field for over 900 snaps and allowing just four sacks and five hits to earn a 68.4 pass-blocking grade.

By adding either Humphries or Leno, the left side of the offensive line would be locked down, especially with the return of Sidy Sow at guard (if that's where they keep him). Both could be the catalyst to improve the offense and give Brissett more comfortable opportunities to open up the offense.

At this point, it shouldn't be an "if" and should become more of a "when?" situation for the Patriots. Otherwise, the season is only going to get worse.

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