New England Patriots: Breaking down 5 highest paid players

Oct 26, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tackle Nate Solder (77) prepares to block Chicago Bears defensive end Jared Allen (69) during the second half of New England

No. 4 Nate Solder, LT, Cap Hit: $ 7,438,000 

Nate Solder is currently on his one-year option of his rookie contract, which is why he is making so much money. Compared to other left tackles, this amount really isn’t that much money, but Solder also isn’t one of the best tackles in the league. He is a solid left tackle, who has done his job well in the recent years, but has occasionally struggled a bit.

I do think the Patriots will try to keep him long-term, but I don’t expect that contract to be worth any more than he is making this year. The Patriots picked up the option and definitely think he is worth this amount of money, at least for one year, but long-term, his cap hit will probably look different. Still as long as he can continue to play solid, he will still be making good money for the Patriots after this year.

Conclusion: A bit pricy, but worth it for the year

Next: After injury concerns, he's worth it