The New England Patriots are expected to continue reshaping their offensive line ahead of the 2026 NFL season. After a significant overhaul in 2025, which included four new starters and improved performance metrics, questions remain about the unit’s long-term structure and potential upgrades.
In 2024, the Patriots’ offensive line ranked near the bottom of league statistics. The following year saw improvement, with the team finishing 12th in run-block win rate and 13th in pass-blocking win rate. Pro Football Network’s O-Line impact score also moved from last place in 2024 to 12th in 2025. Additions such as right tackle Morgan Moses and center Garrett Bradbury provided immediate improvements. Rookie left tackle Will Campbell and left guard Jared Wilson showed promise despite some challenges.
Quarterback Drake Maye faced pressure during the playoffs, being sacked 21 times and pressured on nearly 39% of his drop-backs. While quick pressure rates stayed relatively consistent from regular season to postseason, other factors like holding the ball too long may have contributed to protection issues.
Head coach Mike Vrabel addressed speculation about moving Campbell to guard: “Will is 22 years old. He’s our left tackle.” Campbell’s rookie campaign was affected by a knee injury that sidelined him for part of the regular season. Before his injury, he posted a rookie-best pass-blocking grade and a low pressure rate; both declined after his return.
Wilson’s future position is less certain. Originally drafted as a center prospect from Georgia, he played left guard as a rookie but struggled with play strength at that spot. Bradbury performed well at center in 2025, leaving open whether Wilson will compete for that role or remain at guard.
Upgrading left guard could be a focus this offseason. Free agents David Edwards and Isaac Seumalo are among those who play at a high level on the left side. Other options include Alijah Vera-Tucker, Joel Bitonio, and Dylan Parham. Veteran experience is seen as important for stabilizing the line next to Campbell.
There are also draft prospects such as Oregon’s Emmanuel Pregnon and Iowa’s Gennings Dunker who could provide depth or developmental talent for the interior line positions.
At right tackle, Moses enters his age-35 season after staying healthy throughout 2025 and performing well statistically. The Patriots may look to develop a replacement through the draft or consider younger free agents like Rasheed Walker, Braden Smith, or Jermaine Eluemunor.
Vrabel emphasized continuity for key players while noting ongoing development needs: “Will is 22 years old. He’s our left tackle.”
New England made progress with its offensive line last year but continues searching for solutions to protect its quarterback more effectively and strengthen its running game moving forward.
