Patriots: Evaluating the trade for OT Tyrone Wheatley Jr
If there are any major takeaways from the offseason and preseason, it is that the Patriots need to find answers along the offensive line. They made two last-second trades in an attempt to fix it, but can either player make a difference? In part one, I will break down the first trade. In part two, […]
If there are any major takeaways from the offseason and preseason, it is that the Patriots need to find answers along the offensive line. They made two last-second trades in an attempt to fix it, but can either player make a difference?
In part one, I will break down the first trade. In part two, I will break down the second. It started with the Patriots sending 2022 fourth-round running back Pierre Strong to the Cleveland Browns for tackle Tyrone Wheatley Jr.
Wheatley was a preseason standout for PFF, ranking as the fourth-highest-graded offensive tackle (with a minimum of 30 snaps). However, PFF grades can be subjective and, in my opinion, should be confirmed by a third party who reviews the players' films. That it was I did.
For starters, Wheatley had a unique path. He began his career as a tight end at Michigan, spending three years there, during which he started 24 games, recorded six receptions, and amassed 61 receiving yards, along with one touchdown. He transferred to Morgan State the following season and didn't play a down. He would bring his skills to the 2021 Spring League and make a transition to OT. He went from 265lbs to 320lbs.
Following the Spring League, he signed with the Chicago Bears. He would be waived during final roster cut-downs, but be brought back to the practice squad. He would make a stop with the Las Vegas Raiders, before signing with the Browns in 2022.
His transition from TE to OT likely helped him, as he was already familiar with being an in-line blocker. His film shows an above-average athlete for his weight(320lbs), he moves extremely well as a down-hill blocker and has a quick first step in pass protection.
See the included video below for the corresponding film analysis and video.
Despite being relatively new to the position, with only three seasons since his switch to tackle, he looks like a natural. While he performed well in the 2022 preseason, the team likely viewed him as a developmental project due to his limited experience, which is why he remained on the practice squad. This preseason, he took another step forward and was in contention for a swing tackle role.
From his film, you wouldn't guess he is new to the position. He understands some of the veteran intricacies of the game.
See the included video below for the corresponding film analysis and video.
The Patriots prefer strong offensive linemen, and Wheatley is strong. He moves people at will. He is a road grader in the run game and has a strong anchor in pass protection.
See the included video below for the corresponding film analysis and video.
I don't know if he can immediately compete for a starting tackle role, but he definitely looks better than all of the other options the Patriots deployed in the preseason.
See the included video below for the corresponding film analysis and video.
The Patriots need help at right tackle, as they have no clear-cut starter. However, the left side isn't as sure as it once was. Trent Brown has been a long-time starter at both tackle spots but is coming off a down year and has questions surrounding his health.
Wheatley showed his versatility, playing both right tackle and left tackle in the preseason. Despite the difficult transition, Wheatley was able to take snaps at both and look great at both spots. Versatility Belichick covets.
It remains to be seen what Wheatley can offer, but his tape shows a promising developmental prospect who, despite being new to the position, has made significant strides in just a few short years. New England hopes they can tap into his untapped potential and unearth a hidden gem.
Featured image via Kirthmon F. Dozier, Detroit Free Press, Detroit Free Press via Imagn Content Services, LLC
