New England Patriots 2015 Offensive Line Breakdown

Sep 21, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots tackle Nate Solder (77) sets up to block as tight end Rob Gronkowski (87) goes out for a pass during the first quarter against the Oakland Raiders at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

LT: Nate Solder

Unless an unforeseen injury happens, Nate Solder is going to be the Patriots left tackle once again this season. Solder was a first round pick by the Patriots (17th overall) back in the 2011 NFL Draft. He played right tackle for most of his rookie season (and even a little bit at tight end), before moving to the left side in his second-year.

Solder has now held down the most important position on the Patriots offensive line for the past three seasons, and will undoubtedly continue to do so this year. While Solder may not be an elite player at the position, he has grown to be a very good one. He has very quick feet and impressive athleticism for an offensive lineman, which obviously comes in handy against outside speed rushers.

Solder is a strong player, but he is far from a mauler. He is a solid run blocker, but most of his value comes from his success in pass protection, which is obviously nice for all of the passing that the Patriots like to do.

If Solder were to miss any-time for whatever reason, Marcus Cannon would probably be the first player to step in at left tackle. Cannon has never been able to find a consistent place on the Patriots’ offensive line, but his struggles have been at playing the interior. He is much better suited to play tackle, and while it would not always be pretty, the Patriots would probably survive with him being the primary left tackle.

Sebastian Vollmer or even Cameron Fleming could both also step in at left tackle in a pinch, but both players are probably best suited for the right side.

Next: Up Next, Right Tackle