These Patriots Newcomers Labeled ‘X Factors’ Entering Season

The success of the New England Patriots could very well depend on the success of their new-look offensive line.

New England’s group figures to be much-improved from past seasons — it couldn’t get worse, right? The Patriots added three likely starters as they signed veteran right tackle Morgan Moses, center Garrett Bradbury and drafted left tackle Will Campbell fourth overall.

There still are some questions, however. How will Campbell stack up against NFL pass-rushers as a rookie? Will Moses stay healthy entering his age-34 campaign? How well will the Patriots replace retired captain David Andrews? Who will emerge among the group of left guard options?

It’s an impactful position group.

ESPN NFL analyst Seth Walder confirmed just that as he labeled Moses and Campbell the “X factors” for the Patriots this season.

“Last season, Drake Maye was forced to play behind a porous line that ranked 31st in pass block win rate — hardly ideal circumstances for a promising quarterback the Patriots hope to develop,” Walder wrote while ranking the top 32 rosters in the league.

“Tackles are the most important part of the pass-protecting equation, and with two new ones, the Patriots could turn around their protection in a hurry. Being the No. 4 pick hardly guarantees immediate success (even first-round offensive linemen are below average in their first season), but it means Campbell has a shot to hit the ground running. Moses has been a stable pass protector, which should continue if his age (34) doesn’t catch up to him.”

Moses, Campbell and the rest of the Patriots return to the gridiron this week with training camp starting Wednesday.