New dominating lineman could solve Patriots' left tackle woes long-term

It's no secret that the Patriots have been trying to put together an improved offensive line since the 2024 offseason began. They even used two draft picks on a guard and tackle in the hopes of adding solid depth to the roster.

They also signed free-agent tackles and made most of their practice squad versatile linemen, a sign that they are very well aware of the team's weaknesses ahead of their regular season opener. While that might be the case, they look to have added some impressive prospects with a lot of potential who have fans excited about what the future could look like for the offense.

One of those players is 6'9" Caleb Jones, who the Patriots just signed to their practice squad after he was released from the Packers during roster cuts last week.

The 24-year-old has mostly played right tackle throughout his career but spent the offseason playing on the left side in Green Bay, bringing much-needed versatility to the Patriots' needy group. Because they have had such a problem finding a viable replacement for Trent Brown, who also had good size and strength for the left tackle position, Jones could be a diamond in the rough who can be shaped into the perfect replacement.

The Patriots' newest tackle addition could develop into their left tackle of the future

It's certainly too early to declare a young tackle prospect as the savior of the offensive line and that's not what's happening here. However, he played well in his new position for the Packers during the preseason and even has special teams experience, a factor that the Patriots are known to love.

His incredible size is a significant addition to the line, especially replacing a dominant force like Brown at left tackle. His strength and impressive athleticism give him a considerable edge over defenders in the passing and run game, some of which has been an issue for the Patriots in recent years.

If Jones can hone in on those and take advantage of the reps he is given with the practice squad, he could become a serious weapon for the offensive line for years to come.

It might not happen right away, but just seeing the potential in Jones brings an excitement regarding the status of the offensive line, knowing there is a promising talent waiting in the wings and can hopefully become exactly what the team has been looking for.

It would help out the roster, even more so when the 2025 Draft comes around, as most believe the Patriots need to target a starting left tackle with their first-round pick no matter where they land in the draft order.

If they can develop one of their practice squad additions into the player they need, they could use their pick on someone else, like a WR1 that they haven't landed just yet, making the future of Jones even more fascinating to watch.

What makes it even better is he isn't the only one to watch for on the practice squad. Another undrafted free agent recently joined the team, Demontrey Jacobs, who also has shown a lot of potential since working with the Broncos this summer.

If the Patriots somehow got lucky and added two potentially great left tackles to their practice squad, this year could be a bigger success than anyone wants to give them credit for.

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