The New England Patriots are shaking things up in Foxborough, and their sights are set on bolstering their offensive line with a blockbuster trade proposal. After a rocky start to the 2024 season, where their revamped offensive line has struggled with consistency, the Patriots are reportedly eyeing a move for Washington Commanders’ guard Nick Allegretti, a Super Bowl champion with a proven track record and a monstrous 1,100-snap season in 2024.
The Patriots’ offensive line has undergone a dramatic overhaul since last season, with four of five starters replaced. Mike Onwenu remains the sole returning starter, anchoring the right side, while the left side was rebuilt through the draft with LSU’s Will Campbell and rookie guard Jared Wilson. Free agency brought in center Garrett Bradbury and right tackle Morgan Moses to round out the unit. On paper, this group promised improvement, and a single sack allowed in Week 4 against the Carolina Panthers offered a glimmer of hope. However, the line’s performance has been inconsistent, with 13 sacks allowed through four games—tied for the fourth-most in the NFL.
Injuries have further complicated matters. Rookie Jared Wilson missed the Panthers game due to injury, though backup Ben Brown stepped up admirably, posting a 68.3 PFF grade. Despite this, Sports Illustrated’s Matt Verderame and Gilberto Manzano propose that the Patriots pursue Nick Allegretti from the Washington Commanders to add depth and stability to the line.
Nick Allegretti, a 29-year-old Illinois product, was drafted in the seventh round by the Kansas City Chiefs in 2019. A versatile lineman capable of playing both guard positions and center, Allegretti spent four seasons as a reliable backup in Kansas City, earning a Super Bowl ring and making spot starts in 13 regular-season games. In 2024, he signed a three-year, $16 million deal with the Washington Commanders, where he played a career-high 1,100 snaps as the starting left guard, protecting rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
However, Allegretti’s 2024 season got off to a rough start. Through the first two games, he was penalized three times and allowed a sack, earning a 49.3 PFF grade, ranking him 87th out of 102 qualifying guards. His pass-blocking grade of 39.1 was particularly concerning, leading to his benching in favor of Andrew Wylie ahead of Week 3. Despite this, his experience, versatility, and championship pedigree make him an intriguing target for a Patriots team looking to fortify its trenches.
Verderame and Manzano suggest that the Patriots could acquire Allegretti for a modest seventh-round pick. The trade would provide New England with a battle-tested veteran who could serve as a swing lineman, offering depth at guard and center. While Allegretti may not single-handedly transform the Patriots’ offensive line, his 1,100-snap season demonstrates durability, and his Super Bowl experience could bring a winning mentality to a young and rebuilding roster.
The proposed trade has sparked debate among analysts and fans alike. On one hand, Allegretti’s versatility and experience could provide much-needed insurance for a Patriots line that has shown flashes of potential but lacks consistency. Ben Brown performed well in Week 4, but the injury to Jared Wilson exposed the team’s vulnerability along the interior. Allegretti’s ability to play multiple positions could allow the Patriots to weather further injuries without missing a beat.
However, there are reasons to question the move. The Patriots already have depth along the interior line, with Ben Brown proving capable and 2024 third-round pick Caedan Wallace transitioning to guard this offseason. Vederian Lowe, typically a tackle, could also slide inside if needed. Financially, the trade raises concerns. Allegretti is earning $3.7 million in 2024, but his salary jumps to over $7 million in 2026—a significant commitment for a backup, especially for a Patriots team projected to be over the salary cap next year. Trading a draft pick for a player who might be released after the season to avoid that cap hit feels like a risky proposition, particularly when Brown has already shown promise.
Additionally, Caedan Wallace’s struggles—he was a healthy scratch despite Wilson’s injury—raise questions about his long-term fit, but the Patriots may prefer to explore free agency or their practice squad for solutions rather than spending draft capital on a veteran backup.
The Patriots’ pursuit of Allegretti signals their determination to address their offensive line woes and protect their quarterback, whether it’s Drake Maye or Jacoby Brissett, moving forward. A reliable front is crucial for establishing a balanced offense, especially in a division with formidable defenses like the New York Jets and Buffalo Bills. Allegretti’s championship pedigree and ability to play multiple roles could provide stability and mentorship for a young line, even if he doesn’t start every game.
However, the trade’s modest cost—a seventh-round pick—must be weighed against the team’s long-term financial constraints and existing depth. If the Patriots believe Brown and Wallace can develop into reliable contributors, they may opt to stand pat and focus on coaching up their current roster.
The proposed trade for Nick Allegretti is a bold move that could inject experience and toughness into the Patriots’ offensive line. His 1,100-snap season and Super Bowl pedigree make him an enticing target for a team desperate to stabilize its trenches. However, with financial concerns and existing depth options, New England must carefully consider whether this trade is the best path forward. For now, the Patriots’ engine is revving, but whether Allegretti is the spark to ignite a turnaround remains to be seen.