The Patriots have another offensive lineman dealing with an injury, so they’ve turned to the free agent pool to potentially provide some depth. ESPN’s Mike Reiss reports (via Twitter) that the team worked out veteran offensive tackle Marshall Newhouse today. The team also auditioned defensive back Nate Brooks.
The Patriots lost starting right tackle Marcus Cannon to a shoulder injury during last night’s win, further depleting a grouping that recently lost David Andrews. With backup lineman Ted Karras already thrust into the starting center role, the team had to turn to the recently-acquired Jermaine Eluemunor to fill in for Cannon. This left New England with former undrafted free agent James Ferentz as their lone backup lineman.
If the Patriots are specifically looking for a tackle, Newhouse would fit the bill. The 30-year-old had started 72 games throughout his nine-year career, although he was limited to only two in 14 appearances between the Bills and Panthers last season. The Saints added the lineman back in May, but he landed on the IR before being released with a settlement. Even if Cannon isn’t sidelined for very long, Newhouse could provide the Patriots with an upgrade over some of their inexperienced options.
Brooks, a former standout at North Texas, spent the preseason with the Cardinals. After failing to make the 53-man roster, the defensive back caught on with Arizona’s practice squad, although he was let go last week.
Patriots look at a NEWHOUSE !!
Remember a Dallas Cowboy Running back in the 70’s and 80’s named Robert Newhouse!