The New England Patriots may not have a departing free agent whose return makes more sense than guard Ted Karras. Maybe safety Devin McCourty is as much of a must-retain player. But Karras was a cornerstone on an offensive line that helped clear the way for the Patriots’ rushing attack while competently protecting the quarterback.
Karras and company were one of the biggest reasons for New England’s offensive success — with the running game setting a foundation for everything else. Even when teams knew the Patriots would run the ball, the offensive line cleared space. And because it’s an offensive league, the Patriots would be wise to preserve their offensive identity, starting with re-signing Karras.
Here are our thoughts on his free-agency prospects.