Patriots have a clear path to address huge need in free agency with intriguing proposed signing
It's no surprise that the New England Patriots are in desperate need of new offensive tackles this offseason. So with that, there is one free agent that ESPN has picked as the best fit for the Patriots, and that is Los Angeles Rams tackle Alaric Jackson. "We've already matched a few players to New England, […]
It's no surprise that the New England Patriots are in desperate need of new offensive tackles this offseason.
So with that, there is one free agent that ESPN has picked as the best fit for the Patriots, and that is Los Angeles Rams tackle Alaric Jackson.
"We've already matched a few players to New England, but the Patriots have the most cap space in the NFL and can continue to spend by adding Jackson to play left tackle. With his 6-7, 345-pound frame, Jackson has the play strength to anchor against power off the edge, and he understands how to win with positioning. His experience (35 career starts) would be great in New England as the team builds up front to protect quarterback Drake Maye," ESPN's Matt Bowen wrote.
Jackson has spent his entire career with the Rams, being signed as an undrafted rookie free agent in May 2021.
A to Z Sports' AJ Schulte provided some more analysis on what Jackson brings to the table.
"Above-average to good run blocker who has improved in pass pro with the Rams. Not an elite athlete who can handle elite pass rushers in pass pro but at least average in that realm now. Good overall play strength and his technique has improved with the Rams. Not a top 10 guy but I'd say around league-average or so," Schulte wrote.
Many mock drafts currently have the Patriots selecting LSU tackle Will Campbell with the No. 4 overall pick. And the Patriots should go after veteran tackle Ronnie Stanley if the Ravens allow him to become a free agent. However, none of this is guaranteed.
So having depth at the position is crucial, and Jackson can provide that.
