The New England Patriots’ offensive line showed improvement over the 2024 season but remained a significant weakness during the playoffs, finishing tied for 23rd in sacks allowed during the regular season with 48 surrendered. Additionally, they gave up 21 more sacks over four playoff games, signaling that bolstering this unit is critical as the team moves into the offseason. Head coach Mike Vrabel and Executive Vice President of Player Personnel Eliot Wolf have made it clear that addressing offensive line concerns is a priority. This was underscored by the recent visit from offensive tackle Jedrick Wills Jr., as reported by NFL Insider Jordan Schultz, hinting the Patriots are exploring options at tackle that could affect Morgan Moses’ role going forward.
Evaluating Morgan Moses’ Role Amidst Offensive Line Challenges
Morgan Moses provided relative stability at right tackle for the Patriots during the 2025 season, playing every snap across 1,032 attempts and allowing only one sack alongside 23 pressures. Pro Football Focus awarded him a solid overall grade of 74. While he was not the top left tackle in the league, Moses contributed consistently to the team’s offensive efforts. However, his performance dipped notably during the final two playoff games, where he allowed one sack and four quarterback hurries, coupled with a season total of eight penalties.
At 35 years old, Moses’ ability to maintain this level of play is in question. Having signed a three-year contract worth $24 million last offseason, his $10.4 million cap hit for the upcoming year places financial pressure on the Patriots. Releasing Moses before the June 1 deadline could save the team $3.1 million in cap space, while cutting him afterward would free up $4.5 million, according to Spotrac. Although he remains an important part of the team’s recent turnaround, the Patriots must weigh his on-field contributions against age, cost, and future performance reliability.
Jedrick Wills Jr. Brings Potential as a Long-Term Right Tackle Solution
The visit from Jedrick Wills Jr. highlights the team’s drive to find a durable and effective player to anchor the right tackle spot in the long term. Although Wills has primarily played left tackle in the NFL, his college experience on the right side makes a positional switch feasible. Over five seasons with the Cleveland Browns, Wills has shown some positive traits as a pass protector; however, his recent form has declined, registering six sacks and 26 quarterback pressures in his last 13 games.
Injury concerns also complicate Wills’ profile. He has appeared in only 13 games over the past three seasons and missed the entire 2025 campaign, introducing risk to his potential signing. At age 27, Wills still possesses the youth and upside to become a cornerstone on the Patriots’ offensive front. The current depth at tackle includes veterans Vederian Lowe and Thayer Munford Jr., both set to become free agents, serving as backups more than consistent starters, while Marcus Bryant has minimal game experience with just 18 snaps.
Wills’ connection to Coach Vrabel, who worked with the Cleveland Browns as a coaching and personnel consultant overseeing tight ends and offensive linemen last season, adds familiarity that may ease his transition to New England. His skill set and potential establish him as a strong candidate to fill the vacancy Moses could leave, demonstrating the Patriots’ intention to further strengthen their offensive line.
Implications for the Patriots’ Offensive Line Heading into 2026
The Patriots’ pursuit of Jedrick Wills Jr. signals a strategic move toward upgrading a critical area of their roster. While Moses performed competently throughout the year, the combination of his age, salary, and recent playoff struggles may push the team to move on from the veteran tackle. The decision will likely hinge on salary cap considerations and confidence in potential replacements. Wills presents both opportunity and uncertainty due to his injury history, but his relative youth and experience could offer the long-term solution New England needs at right tackle.
In the coming weeks, the Patriots will continue to evaluate their options, balancing financial realities with on-field potential as they finalize their offensive line plans heading into the 2026 season. How they handle Moses’ future and potentially add Wills or other candidates will be pivotal for the team’s ability to protect their quarterback and improve offensive efficiency.
Sources: Former #Browns OT Jedrick Wills, who sat out last season to fully recover from a knee injury, has been on a tour of visits with NFL teams — including the #Patriots and today with the #Lions. Visits are expected to continue into next week.
A former top-10 pick, Wills —… pic.twitter.com/6vQiDaLXni
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 5, 2026
