Key Takeaways:
– The New England Patriots are scheduling a workout session with ex-XFL lineman, Liam Fornadel.
– Fornadel, former DC Defenders lineman, also has a scheduled workout with the Green Bay Packers.
– This move indicates the Patriots’ efforts to strengthen their struggling offensive line.
– The team has been making significant offseason moves, primarily aimed at rectifying issues on the left side of the line.
In an effort to strengthen their offensive line, the New England Patriots are reportedly planning a workout with former DC Defenders Offensive Guard (OG), Liam Fornadel. This news comes courtesy of Pro Football Newsroom’s James Larsen, indicating the Patriots’ determination to rectify their longstanding health issues on the offensive.
Exploring Fornadel’s Football History
Fornadel enjoyed a stellar stint in the XFL, playing for the DC Defenders in the 2023 season. During his tenure, the off-the-ball linesman did not allow a single sack, emphasizing his reliability and focus. His performance earned him a coveted spot on the 2023 All-XFL team. With a height of 6-foot-4, the 312-pound Fornadel’s physical power, combined with his impressive track record, make him a lucrative prospect for the Patriots.
Prior to his XFL exploits, Fornadel, an alumnus of James Madison University, played 55 career games from 2017 to 2021. During this period, he clocked in 41 starts on the offensive line, achieving significant recognition. He achieved First Team All-American honors in 2019 and was bestowed with Second Team accolades in 2021.
Patriots’ Offensive Line Reshuffle
The Patriots’ consideration of Fornadel comes hot on the heels of recent changes to their offensive line-up. The Patriots recently waived Andrew Stueber, a 2022 seventh-round draft pick. This action made room for the signing of undrafted free agent and wide receiver, David Wallis.
The most significant challenge lies on the left side of the line, with left guard Cole Strange likely to be sidelined for a major part of the upcoming season. Additionally, the previous season’s starting left tackle, Trent Brown, has opted to explore free agency, joining Cincinnati.
It’s anticipated that Antonio Mafi and rookie, Layden Robinson, are potential players to fulfill the left guard role. However, the focal point of attention will be on who occupies the left tackle position, a critical spot on the offensive line which was further compromised by the 2023 benching of Chukwuma Okorafor.
Experts Weigh in on Patriots’ Offensive Line Dilemma
The Patriots’ offensive line predicament isn’t going unnoticed by football analysts. Ross Tucker, host of the “Ross Tucker Football Podcast,” and a former NFL offensive lineman, expressed his concerns about the Patriots’ current offensive line-up.
Duplication of duties by question-mark players Okorafor and rookie Caedan Wallace, Tucker states, increases the risk. Damien Woody, an ex-Patriots offensive lineman and now football analyst, echoed Tucker’s sentiments when speaking to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, emphasizing that solid offensive line play is often a commonality among teams reaching playoffs.
In conclusion, Fornadel’s successful workout could play a crucial role in resolving the Patriots’ left-side concerns. Depending on his performance, this ex-XFL player could potentially bring much-needed stability to what seems to be a shaky offensive line-up. Moreover, Fornadel would be another piece of the puzzle that the Patriots are seemingly attempting to solve, all with an ambitious view towards postseason success.