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Patriots QB Drake Maye
The New England Patriots ‘offensive line has been much better than expected this year, but it’s never too early to start planning for the future.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Patriots selected Will Campbell in the first round with the fourth overall pick, securing their franchise left tackle. And with that, they also signed veteran tackle Morgan Moses to play on the right side.
However, there’s no ignoring that Moses will be turning 35 in March, calling into question how much longer he will play for.
So with that, NFL Draft analyst Dane Brugler of The Athletic released his first 2026 Mock Draft and has the Patriots picking Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling with the 32nd overall pick.
“The Patriots’ new team motto: Protect Drake Maye at all costs,” Brugler wrote. “Morgan Moses has played well at right tackle this season, but he turns 35 in March. Freeling would be a great understudy who could provide short-term depth and a long-term answer on the outside.”
Monroe Freeling Already Has A Connection To The Patriots
GettyGeorgia Football’s 2024 Offensive Line
Freeling, a 6-foot-7 tackle, joined Georgia in 2023, appearing in eight games during his first season, and was part of an offensive line that ranked first in the SEC. Then, in 2024, he played in all 13 games with four starts. During his first two years, Freeling also spent time playing alongside Jared Wilson, who was selected by the Patriots in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft with the 95th overall pick.
Considering how close New England’s offensive linemen are this season, that familiarity with Wilson will allow him to fit right in.
Patriots’ Offensive Line Depth Was Tested On Monday Night
GettyDrake Maye of the New England Patriots
The Patriots were without Campbell and Wilson in Monday night’s primetime matchup against the New York Giants as the two had sustained a knee and ankle injury, respectively, in the team’s win a week prior.
And they were nearly without starting center Garrett Bradbury, who was added to the injury report shortly before the game with an illness. However, he ultimately played.
But without Campbell and Wilson, it meant that the Patriots had to rely on their offensive line depth, turning to tackle Vederian Lowe and guard Ben Brown. And the two stepped up, protecting Maye’s blind side, with head coach Mike Vrabel taking a moment to praise them on Tuesday.
“I thought that they were excited about playing, and I think that that is probably the thing that pleases me the most, is that they wanted it, that Vederian [Lowe] wanted to go out there, play, compete, and block. And Ben [Brown] fought and battled…” Vrabel said. “But they were excited about playing, they were prepared, and they were ready to go. So, that’s kind of what you have to do at this time of the year, or any time in the National Football League, is be ready to go.”
Sophie Weller Sophie Weller is a sports reporter covering the NFL for Heavy.com. She also works for Patriots Wire, and previously spent time with A to Z Sports and MassLive. She is based out of Boston, Massachusetts, and loves all things football! More about Sophie Weller
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