The New England Patriots could look towards a recently released center to add to their offensive line.
The Vikings announced on Monday that they have released veteran center Garrett Bradbury.
And that means New England could fill the need at center after releasing David Andrews, who had been in New England for 10 years.
They also brought in veteran offensive lineman (center/guard) Wes Schweitzer on a one-year deal, and they have Cole Strange, Ben Brown, and Lecitus Smith on the roster, with Strange probably being the expected starter if no moves were made. But, Strange hasn’t even had a full season to practice at that position. Brown did start for the Patriots numerous times last season after Andrews was sidelined with a season ending shoulder injury, so that’s also an option.
But, it’s clear the Patriots wanted someone with more experience.
And they might look towards Bradbury.
Bradbury has been with the Vikings for the entirety of his six year career after being the 18th overall pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. When he was taken, the thought was he would be a day-one starter at center along with being a long-term answer at the position.
As much as his run blocking was really good in the wide zone scheme the Vikings implemented, his pass blocking left a lot to be desired. At a shade over 300 lbs, Bradbury was on the smaller side and his anchor reflected that.
For years, the Vikings fanbase wanted to get rid of Bradbury due to his poor anchor in pass protection and the propensity to get forklifted off the ball a little too often. He was never benched, starting every game he was fully healthy. However, his struggles were a little too common for the Vikings and they chose to move on.
That not withstanding, Bradbury could provide a capable, average center for the Patriots moving forward. He won’t ever be great, but he will be solid, something that is definitely needed with Drake Maye at quarterback.