More low-budget tackle help is on the way for the Patriots.
ESPN’s Dianna Russini reported Wednesday that New England is expected to sign tackle Riley Reiff. The details of the deal are unknown, but it’s likely a one-year deal for the 34-year-old veteran.
Reiff has spent most of his career in the NFL North with Detroit, Minnesota and last year with the Chicago Bears. Though he has primarily played left tackle in his career, his most recent two seasons in Cincinnati and Chicago have seen him play exclusively on the right side.
Though he’s got some miles on him and has struggled with injuries of late, he’s been dependable when on the field. He posted a pass-blocking grade of 67.0 in half a season of action in 2022, allowing 18 pressures and three sacks.
Like Calvin Anderson, Reiff should serve as a solid veteran option who can start if needed and will be competition for whichever rookie the Patriots might want to draft at the position – presumably with one of their first two picks.
Additionally, Reiff allows New England to remain flexible with Trent Brown, assuming he remains with the team this season. While the pursuit of Anderson (and the possibility of drafting a rookie left tackle) are signs the Patriots might want to move Brown back to the right side, adding Reiff as a depth could keep alive the potential for Brown to remain at left tackle if the offense needs him there.
It might not be the most interesting signing in the world, but a healthy Reiff at least adds another competent body to the offensive tackle room.