The New England Patriotsโ Urgent Need for a Left Tackle: Trading for Andrew Thomas Could Be the Solution
The New England Patriots have made strides in improving their offensive line this offseason, with significant signings like Morgan Moses and Garrett Bradbury. However, there is still one glaring hole on the line that could hamper the offense next season: the left tackle spot. The left tackle is arguably the most important position on the offensive line, especially in a league where quarterbacks need protection to thrive. If the Patriots want any chance of competing in the upcoming season, they must prioritize addressing this critical need before the start of the year.
Though the team has been linked to some promising left tackle prospects in the upcoming draft, such as Will Campbell, Josh Conerly Jr., and Kelvin Banks Jr., the Patriots could benefit more from securing an established veteran who can step in immediately. If they want flexibility in their draft to target blue-chip players like Travis Hunter or Abdul Carter, making a trade could be the most effective solution. The free agent market for left tackles is thin, so a trade might be the best route for the Patriots to obtain the talent they need.
One potential target is Andrew Thomas, the starting left tackle for the New York Giants. Thomas, now entering his sixth season, has shown flashes of brilliance, but his career has been marred by injuries. Over the past two years, he has missed 18 games, playing only 16 of a possible 34. Despite these setbacks, Thomas remains one of the most talented left tackles in the NFL when healthy. Drafted fourth overall in 2020, Thomas struggled during his rookie year but made a remarkable leap in his second season, earning second-team All-Pro honors in 2022.
If Thomas can return to full health, he could significantly elevate the Patriotsโ offensive line. At 6โ5โ and 315 pounds, he is a physical presence who can protect the blindside of a young quarterback like Drake Maye. With solid protection from the left tackle position, Mayeโs development would be able to progress at a quicker pace, allowing the Patriots offense to become more dynamic and dangerous.
To secure Thomas, the Patriots would likely need to offer a strong trade package. The starting point could include one or two picks between the third and fifth rounds, with the possibility of adding a player to the deal. The Giants, in the midst of a rebuild, have a long list of needsโparticularly at linebacker, cornerback, and defensive line. With these holes to fill, the Patriots could offer players such as Joe Milton, Jahlani Tavai, Anfernee Jennings, or Christian Barmore, who would help the Giants as they continue to build their roster.
While giving up valuable picks and players is never easy, it should not be a major concern for New England. The Patriots have made significant additions to their defense this offseason, and they have a wealth of young talent in the pipeline. Letting go of a defensive piece or a mid-round pick to secure a proven left tackle in Thomas could be a worthwhile investment for the future. Moreover, with the signing of Josh Dobbs as a backup quarterback, Milton may become expendable in a trade.
The Giants are not in a position to compete for a championship in the short term. Trading away an expensive veteran like Thomas could help them acquire assets that will contribute to their long-term rebuilding efforts. Additionally, Thomas, as a player in the prime of his career, may not want to spend his best years on a rebuilding team that is unlikely to compete for a playoff spot anytime soon.
For the Patriots, adding Thomas to their offensive line could be the difference between being a competitive team and one that continues to struggle. With a healthy, elite left tackle protecting their quarterback, the Patriotsโ offense could take a major step forward, providing the stability they need to push for a winning season. As they look to end a three-year playoff drought, Andrew Thomas could be the key to restoring their offensive line to prominence.