Patriots Free Agency: Offensive Line Changes Are Coming

While the New England Patriots have some high profile free agents like wide receiver Wes Welker, the real area that could take a hit in free agency is along the Patriots offensive line. The Patriots could be moving on from two of their longtime starting offensive lineman heading into the 2012 season according to a report in the Boston Globe.

According to multiple NFL sources, the Patriots are prepared to move on without left tackle Matt Light and center Dan Koppen. The hope is to get Dan Connolly, who is an unrestricted free agent, under contract before free agency.

The Patriots think they have guys who can step in and take over roles, like Marcus Cannon, who has the ability to play in the interior of the line and potentially as an offensive tackle. Young tackles Sebastian Vollmer and Nate Solder should move back into the starting line up and make the transition from guys like Matt Light. Vollmer has been a good starter before at right tackle, but has battled back injuries as of late. It's possible, though, that the Patriots could see at least three new starters on their offensive line.