Patriots focus on offensive line over linebacker in draft

The New England Patriots have made significant upgrades to their defense this offseason. Now, they may shift their focus to improving their offense early in the upcoming draft. The team has signed several key defensive players, including Milton Williams and Carlton Davis. They have also added Morgan Moses to their offensive line. However, analysts suggest they might prioritize further protection for quarterback Drake Maye by selecting a tackle with their fourth overall pick. ESPN's Mike Tannenbaum predicts that the Patriots will choose Armand Membou, a star tackle from the University of Missouri, over linebacker Abdul Carter. Tannenbaum points out that the Patriots struggled with pass protection last season. They ranked 31st in pass block win rate and allowed 52 sacks, the fifth-highest total in the league. Membou has played 36 games and started in 30 for Missouri, allowing only one sack last season. His athleticism is impressive, with top performance metrics at the NFL Combine, including the best broad jump and the second-fastest 40-yard dash among offensive linemen. While Carter is viewed by many as the best overall player in the draft, Tannenbaum argues that the Patriots may not prioritize a linebacker now that they have strengthened their defense. He believes selecting Membou could set a strong tone for the team under new head coach Mike Vrabel.