I'm tempted to pay little attention to most of these end of roster additions/subtractions. But the story that went with Haslam proves that the Patriots are indeed paying attention. San Diego needs offensive line STARTERS.
But the Pats already have a pair of young Probowl level tackles. They are interviewing for a swing tackle who can play a few games if necessary, and not be a total stiff. So they dump a UDFA and sign a guy in his second year who has started several games for SD, did not embarrass himself or the team. He actually won a game ball, and has displayed the flexibility to play several positions. I can't think of a resume that more fits what the Pats are seeking, other than Svitek who they also signed.
Big Marcus Cannon has been forced to be the swing ROT. Many here suggested he would be an ideal RG with his size. A second swing tackle on the roster releases him to compete with Connoly for that position. The loser becomes a candidate for the swing interior offensive lineman, a position that Connoly has served well in before.
If the Cannon experiment works, then the scouting report on the Pats Offensive line becomes:
a) awesome rushing line with good to great drive blockers every where including C, and an effective pulling LG.
b) very above average Pass blocking line, with bookend tackles, and guards especially competent in pass blocking as well.
c) a small potential weakness at Center with slightly undersized tough guy Wendell there, who can occasionally be out muscled by the biggest DTs like Harloti Ngata.
d) excellent young backups with starting experience inside and out.
