On Friday, the New England Patriots completed a trade sending starting center Garrett Bradbury to the Chicago Bears in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round draft pick. Bradbury, originally a first-round selection by the Minnesota Vikings in 2019 out of LSU, joined the Patriots last offseason on a two-year deal to provide veteran leadership and reinforce their youthful offensive line. He fulfilled that role by starting every game and helping the team reach the Super Bowl.
This move forces the Patriots to adjust their offensive line configuration but simultaneously creates space for a promising 2025 draft prospect to make an impact.
Jared Wilson Prepares to Return to His Natural Center Position
Last year, the Patriots invested a third-round draft pick in Jared Wilson, a highly athletic center from Georgia. With Bradbury occupying the center role, Wilson adapted to playing left guard, starting all games he was healthy for and contributing significantly to an improved New England offensive front. Despite this, Wilson faced challenges adjusting to the position, earning a 52.2 Pro Football Focus grade—a ranking of 67th out of 79 qualifying guards.
Wilson’s experience makes clear that center is his natural fit, and with Bradbury’s departure, Wilson is expected to slide back to that position. ESPN analyst Mike Reiss highlights this change, suggesting that returning to center, combined with another year of NFL experience, should help Wilson develop more consistency and effectiveness. The Patriots’ decision to reposition Wilson signals their confidence in his ability to thrive and solidify their offensive line.
However, this shift leaves a vacancy at left guard that the team must address carefully.
Patriots Weigh Options to Fill Left Guard Vacancy
With Jared Wilson moving back to center, the Patriots must identify a new starter for left guard. Their options include promoting an existing roster player, signing a free agent, or selecting a replacement in the draft. Given the current limited depth on their offensive line, management is likely to explore external candidates to strengthen this crucial position.
The upcoming draft offers several offensive guard prospects who could start immediately, including Kadyn Proctor from Alabama, Emmanuel Pregnon from Oregon, and Chase Bisontis of Texas A&M. Although this draft class may not be considered historic in offensive line talent, it provides multiple viable candidates for New England’s needs.
In free agency, the Patriots might consider acquiring a guard such as Alijah Vera-Tucker, though his contract demands may exceed New England’s budget constraints, especially with other team priorities in play. Alternatively, more affordable veterans like John Simpson, Mekhi Becton, Connor McGovern, Dylan Parham, David Edwards, and Ed Ingram remain realistic targets to bolster the roster.
Implications for the Patriots’ Offensive Line and Draft Strategy
The trade of Garrett Bradbury represents a pivotal moment for the Patriots’ offensive line strategy, reflecting a willingness to invest in younger talent and reshape key positions heading into future seasons. With Jared Wilson returning to center, the team is betting on his potential to anchor the line more effectively.
The necessity to find a starting left guard adds a layer of urgency to the Patriots’ offseason plans, potentially influencing their approach to the 2025 draft and free agency. How they address this need may significantly impact the offensive line’s stability and overall team performance.
As the Patriots prepare for the next chapter, their decisions regarding the offensive front will be critical in sustaining competitiveness and supporting their ambitions for playoff success.
“Wilson had a 52.2 PFF grade as a rookie, good for 67th of 79 qualifying guards.” – Mike Reiss, ESPN Analyst
Opinion/analysis: Garrett Bradbury did everything Patriots asked for after signing him to 2-year deal last offseason, starting every game (1,336 snaps), providing veteran leadership, and helping stabilize OL. With Jared Wilson projected center of future, LG moves up needs list. https://t.co/8NmRaeZRc3
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) March 6, 2026
