The New England Patriots came within one victory of capturing the ultimate prize, but their offensive line vulnerabilities were glaringly exposed at the worst possible moment. To build on their 2025 season, the Patriots must address these weaknesses, specifically as they prepare for the next campaign. The struggles of Morgan Moses in protecting quarterback Drake Maye raise urgent questions about the team’s right tackle position.
While wide receiver Stefon Diggs‘ reduced impact drew criticism and quarterback Drake Maye’s limited weapons were cited as obstacles, the constant pressure from the collapsing pocket far exceeded any individual shortcomings. Maye suffered relentless pressure on nearly every dropback, highlighting a critical need for offensive line restructuring.
Morgan Moses’ Performance Signals Need for Change at Right Tackle
After signing a three-year, $24 million deal with $11 million guaranteed to serve as the Patriots’ right tackle, Morgan Moses failed to provide the level of protection expected. The second-year quarterback Drake Maye was sacked 21 times throughout the playoffs—a record high—including six sacks in the Super Bowl, which crippled the offense’s ability to gain momentum. While Moses’ performance outside the Super Bowl reflected moderate stats, allowing 2.0 sacks and five quarterback hits, the overall pressure numbers told a different story. He conceded 31 pressures and 24 hurries, and his eight penalties further undermined the offensive unit.
According to Pro Football Focus, Moses earned a 69.8 pass-blocking grade, placing him 43rd among 89 players at his position, indicating he was merely average. Though not entirely ineffective, the Patriots evidently need an upgrade in this critical position if they are to improve their offensive outlook for the upcoming seasons.
Trade Potential for Morgan Moses as Patriots Seek Offensive Line Upgrade
Moses remains a reliable, durable player who rarely misses snaps or games, but at 34 years old, he is nearing the final stretch of his career. Still, he retains value across the league, and the Patriots could leverage him in a trade to gain a Day 3 draft pick. According to Over The Cap estimates, any trade after June 1 would free up $7.6 million in salary cap space, providing financial flexibility to pursue other options.
The Patriots also remain invested in Will Campbell, a former first-round draft pick who is under contract for at least another year despite a disappointing Super Bowl showing. Rather than abandoning Campbell prematurely, the team’s quickest path to better quarterback protection appears to be pursuing fresh talent at the right tackle spot to shield Maye effectively.
Looking Ahead: Patriots’ Offensive Line Rebuild Critical for Future Success
The Patriots’ failure to safeguard their quarterback in crucial moments underscored the urgency of retooling their offensive line. With Eliot Wolf tasked with improving this unit, moving on from Morgan Moses after just one season seems imminent. Strengthening the right tackle position is essential not only to ease pressure on Maye but also to enhance the overall offensive productivity heading into the next season.
How the Patriots approach this offseason—whether by trade or drafting—will play a pivotal role in shaping their offensive success and positioning the team for a more competitive 2026 campaign.
