The New England Patriots need to find a way to improve their offensive line this offseason, and they should consider bringing in a player they are already familiar with.
Bills center Connor McGovern will enter free agency this offseason after spending the last three seasons in Buffalo, making the Pro Bowl in 2024. He could be an excellent choice to step in at center, taking over for Garrett Bradbury, whom the Patriots signed last offseason.
New England signed a two-year, $9.5 million contract with Bradbury last March, but he finished the season with a 60.1 offensive grade, ranking 39th among centers according to Pro Football Focus.
Bradbury is set to have a salary cap number of $6.9 million for next season, but the Patriots could save $5.7 million if they decide to release him during the offseason.
McGovern would be an excellent option for the Patriots if they decide to move on from Bradbury. He has been one of the top-performing centers, finishing with the 14th-best grade this past season in pass-blocking.
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Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox ranked McGovern as the 41st-best overall free agent this offseason.
“Connor McGovern has been a quality center, starting 49 games over the past three seasons in Buffalo,” Knox wrote on Wednesday. “A tremendous pass protector, the 28-year-old also has the athleticism and quickness needed to run block on the move. He didn’t allow a sack in 2025, according to Pro Football Focus.”
The Patriots will face crucial decisions this offseason, starting with adding a solid center. This move could strengthen New England’s offensive line and pave the way to address other positions in the 2026 NFL Draft.
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