Training camp disaster might force Patriots to pursue free agent Super Bowl champion

Of all the issues facing the Patriots' offense this offseason, the offensive line was presumed to be the priority for improvement during free agency and the draft. The new regime did lock down their best tackle by extending Mike Onwenu to a big contract, and they double-dipped in the draft by selecting tackle Caedan Wallace and guard Layden Robinson.

Veteran tackle Chukwuma Okorafor was signed in free agency, as well, but the Patriots were hoping to use him at left tackle despite his limited experience on that side.

The inconsistency of the O-line's performance has forced Jerod Mayo to experiment with various lineups, even moving Onwenu from right tackle to right guard. On top of that, having starter Cole Strange absent due to injury has made the situation even more difficult, and it's proven to be a major issue for the offense during training camp.

Their struggles were on full display during Tuesday's joint practice with the Eagles, leading to an absolute domination by the Super Bowl favorite's defense.

It's become such a problem for the Patriots that it might force them to seek help in free agency, with one player in particular who could solve most of their woes.

Patriots could settle left tackle worries by signing Donovan Smith

Although the starting offensive line group hasn't been established yet, the problems within the group have been, which has created an opportunity for the Patriots to address it head on by signing a proven talent still looking for a team for the season ahead.

Two-time Super Bowl Champion Donovan Smith was entrusted by the Bucs to protect Tom Brady's blindside, and he did the same for Patrick Mahomes last season. He allowed just two sacks on the quarterback last year, which was a significant part of their success as they went on to win another Lombardi trophy.

By adding a guy like Smith to the roster, the Patriots wouldn't have much to worry about at left tackle, as they would have an immediate starter and pretty good depth with Okorafor and Vederian Lowe.

This would put Jacoby Brissett in the best position possible to succeed while also giving Mayo a chance to safely put Drake Maye in at some point during the season. Given where they are right now, it would be too high of a risk to put the rookie in under center during a regular season game, but it's also not entirely fair to expect Brissett to navigate the year with inconsistent protection.

Given how late into the offseason it is and the apparent lack of interest from other teams due to his injury history, the Patriots could likely acquire Smith at a decent value, ultimately becoming a low-risk high-reward situation.

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