The start of free agency for the Patriots has gone unexpectedly well so far, with a clear focus on improving the defense with their first batch of signings. Having Mike Vrabel in as the new head coach certainly explains that and it's hard to argue that any of the players signed on Monday weren't worth the contracts or the impact they'll make on the team.
On the other hand, the offense has improved slowly, with only TE Austin Hooper being re-signed and seasoned veteran tackle Morgan Moses being signed from free agency. Both are solid additions and positions of need, but there is still a lot of work to be done to drastically help Drake Maye next season.
Besides wide receiver, which will continue to be a big need until addressed, the offensive line remains an issue. Finding a competent left tackle is a must and the options the Patriots have left are not the most exciting.
It leaves one main prospect for the Patriots to look into, former Jaguars and Vikings starter Cam Robinson. Although he might not be a name at the top of the list to be their next left tackle, they might need to seriously consider signing the veteran to ensure the offensive line is an upgrade over what we saw last season.
If the Patriots land Cam Robinson, that would round out a very good day for them.
— Chad Graff (@ChadGraff) March 10, 2025
Would it come with a lot of overpays? Yup. But field a respectable team and worry about value signings next year.
The Patriots might have to shift their focus to signing Cam Robinson in free agency for their offensive line woes
Before he was traded to the Vikings last season, it was reported that Cam Robinson was on the Patriots radar to help deal with their declining offensive line.
From David Andrews' season ending injury and Cole Strange unable to suit up until the final weeks of the season to a revolving door of starting groups, the Patriots had a lot to deal with due to their lack of urgency to adequately improve the offensive line during the offseason.
It then greatly impacted their quarterback's performance, Jacoby Brissett first and Drake Maye from Week 6 on, and cannot continue this year. That's why Robinson's availability still might be the move the Patriots need to make to have the most complete group possible heading into the draft and give Maye the best chance at having solid protection for his second season.
Robinson was fairly solid as a starting left tackle between the two teams last year. Through 999 offensive snaps, he allowed seven sacks and seven quarterback hits while recording a 70.4 pass blocking grade from PFF. His run blocking could be better, but it's still a massive upgrade compared to what the team dealt with in 2024.
Adding the veteran would also allow the Patriots to focus on selecting the best player available in the draft, especially the first round, instead of being forced to take a left tackle. While that could still be the right move, it would be better that they have the choice rather than being pushed into a corner to do so. On top of that, having a veteran on the left side would surely be more comforting for Maye, and the rookie could learn from Robinson throughout the year.
Considering their options at this point, Robinson looks like a frontrunner for the job. It would put the Patriots in a good position at the start of free agency and cross another massive need off the list.